Fire Safety

Most of the University of Lynchburg’s residential facilities are equipped with hard-wired fire alarm systems that directly communicate with CSS. Campus buildings with fossil fuel heating systems also have carbon monoxide detection systems linked to CSS. Upon receiving an alarm, a campus security officer is dispatched to investigate the cause.

The University works in partnership with the Lynchburg Fire Marshal’s Office to conduct annual fire/life safety inspections, ensuring compliance with state and local codes. Additionally, fire extinguishers are inspected monthly by CSOs, and fire safety systems are upgraded as necessary during construction and renovations.

To enhance your safety, please familiarize yourself with the fire safety features of campus buildings and adopt responsible practices:

• Locate and learn how to use fire extinguishers and pull stations.
• Identify the nearest exits from your classrooms, residence, or office.
• Ensure that access to extinguishers and fire exits remains clear.
• Report any issues with fire extinguishers to CSS.
• Take fire alarms seriously and evacuate promptly.
• In case of an evacuation, follow the detailed emergency procedures below.

Evacuation procedures and maps are posted throughout campus buildings and residence halls.

In the event of a fire or other emergency necessitating evacuation:

• Activate the fire alarm system.
• Remain calm and act swiftly.
• Exit the building immediately, avoiding elevators.
• Stay below smoke levels.
• Check doors for heat before opening.
• If trapped, seal the room with tape, clothes, or towels, and use a wet cloth to aid breathing.
• If your clothes catch fire, STOP, DROP, and ROLL!
• Do not re-enter the building until it is safe to do so.
• Tell campus security officers or firefighters about anyone trapped inside.
• Follow instructions from campus authorities and emergency personnel.

To mitigate fire hazards, certain items are prohibited in University residential facilities, including candles, halogen lamps, incense, hookahs, space heaters, gas canisters, extension cords and multi-plug adapters, and any appliance with an open flame or exposed heating element. Specific cooking appliances are permitted in residence hall rooms, and grills may be used outdoors, per Residence Life Policies. Possession or use of fireworks on campus is strictly prohibited. Smoking on campus is only permitted in designated areas (see University policy on smoking, tobacco, and nicotine).

Electric space heaters meeting specific safety criteria are allowed, with a limit of one per room. All residential facilities are smoke-free. Fires are only permitted in designated outdoor areas.

Campus Safety and Security conducts fire drills semiannually in student residential facilities.

Fire safety information is available on The Hornet, CSS’s website, and introductory meetings at the start of each fall semester provide basic evacuation instructions.

CSOs receive annual fire safety training, and student staff members in the Office of Housing and Residence Life are trained in building evacuation procedures. Violations of fire safety policies may result in educational sanctions.