Fire and Safety Information

Handling Safety and Security Situations

First call an RA or RLC for assistance.  If you cannot contact a member of the Residence Life Staff, call the Winthrop Campus Police, open 24 hours a day.  The phone extension is 3333.  In emergency situations, contact the Campus Police immediately.

Windows

Modifying or tampering with windows in any way is prohibited in all Winthrop University Residence Halls.  This includes, but is not limited to, removing window stops, breaking windows, or damaging them in any way.  Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary actions and monetary fines.

Fire Drills

Two fire drills are conducted every semester.  You are required to participate in both.  These are necessary for you to learn fire drill procedures and to practice exiting your residence hall safely.  When you hear a fire alarm, you must assume there is a fire and follow Residence Life staff's instructions.

Fire Safety

The sounding of false alarms and tampering with fire-fighting or safety equipment including extinguishers, smoke detectors, hoses, sprinkler pipes, exit signs, dooor and fire alarm systems is prohibited.

The use of open-coiled, open-plate devices, open flames, ember devices, oil lamps incense and candles is prohibited.

Personal and Building Safety

Possession and use of firearms, knives with longer than a two-inch blade, dangerous weapons, slingshots, explosives, air-guns, paint-ball guns, flammable fluids, kerosene heaters, fireworks, hazardous chemical mixtures or propelled missiles is prohibited.
Students are not allowed on roofs and ledges.

Objects are not to be thrown out of any window, nor are articles to be placed on exterior window ledges.

Room doors should be bolt locked

Window screens are not to be removed

Only main entrance doors are to be used after 8pm.  Any outside door may be used during fire alarms.  Locked outside doors are never to be propped open.  Using these doors after hall closing will result in a $25 fine or other sanctions.

Tampering with elevators and electrical equipment is not permitted.

Tornados

A tornado watch means that tornadoes are possible.
A tornado warning means that a tornado has been sighted in the warning area.  Usually warning sirens will be sounded.

1. When instructed by Residence Life personnel, quickly seek shelter in the lowest level of the building, preferably in an interior hallway or room.  If time does not permit, go to the safest area of the room you are in, usually the inside wall farthest away from doors and windows.
2. Doors to rooms should be closed
3. Take shelter underneath a desk or other piece of heavy furniture.  Assume a fetal position to protect your head and eyes.
4. If outdoors, immediately seek shelter, if available.  Otherwise, take cover in the nearest ditch or depression, away from power lines, buildings and trees.  Do not remain in a vehicle or a non-permanent structure or attempt to outrun a tornado.
5. After the tornado has passed, evaluate your situation and if you need emergency assistance call the Campus Police at ext. 3333.
6. Be aware of any structural damage around you, and if needed leave the building per "General Building Evacuation" guidelines.

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