As students move into residence halls and apartments this fall, there are certain rules and regulations to be mindful of. Here is what Eastern Michigan University students should know as they prepare for campus living.
Theft
EMU's Department of Public Safety officers say the biggest safety issue they see isn’t a stranger sneaking around the stairwell, but instead an unlocked door.
"The biggest problem we have is theft,” said Andrea Elliott, an EMU community engagement officer. "It often happens because people don’t lock the doors in their rooms."
Elliott said students will often prop doors open for friends in their hallways, leaving the area vulnerable to strangers.
Elliott also warned about the practice of tailgating. This is the act of letting someone slip in behind a secure door on campus, inviting strangers to areas designated for students with exclusive access without buzzing visitors in.
Elliott says if a student notices someone suspicious loitering around a residence hall, they should be sure to not let them follow through any locked doors.
Elliott’s advice is simple: report it to a resident adviser, front desk staff, a housing specialist or EMU police directly. She said students should be ready to describe what makes the person suspicious along with their appearance.
Students should call both police and residence staff in an event they feel is dangerous.
Fire safety
Due to fire safety concerns, open flames, candles, incense, hot plates and improper extension cord use are prohibited in residence halls.
The 26-27 HRL Guide to Campus Living explains, "Air fryers and similar appliances with covered heating elements and shut off timers are allowed but must be used in the common kitchen or apartment kitchens for cooking. Microwaves, toasters, and coffee pots are allowed for room use."
In the event of a fire, students should report the incident to housing and the police, clear the area and pull the fire alarm.
Jeanette Zalba, the director of EMU Housing and Residence Life, also said students should evacuate within three minutes of any fire alarm.
“Whenever an alarm sounds in your building, you must exit the building. Don't forget to take your keys, shoes and a jacket ... Close and lock your door behind you," Zalba said.
During monthly residence hall fire drills, students will learn fire procedures and designated safe locations.
Alcohol misuse
According to the 26-27 HRL Guide to Campus Living, all residents must follow state and federal regulations regarding alcohol. No one under the age of 21 is allowed to consume or own alcohol or alcohol containers.
Any room that has at least one occupant under the age of 21 may not have alcohol on the premises. This makes Putnam and Phelps dry halls, because they are predominately first year student housing.
Those 21 years or older can keep alcohol in their room, but cannot drink in the presence of those underage, including roommates. Students over the age of 21 are permitted no more than one case (twelve count) of beer, two liters of wine or one liter of spirits.
Unhealthy relationships
Unhealthy roommate dynamics and dating relationships that may involve abuse are another concern on campus, Elliot said.
If a student suspects someone they know is in an abusive relationship, she recommends starting with a conversation. Students can also anonymously file a Title IX report if they feel someone needs help. If they believe a serious crime has been committed, they should contact the police. Staff are required to report such situations under the Clery Act.
For everyday roommate friction, Elliott says students should use housing’s conflict-resolution process. This includes speaking to their roommate first, and if needed, contacting their resident advisor for further help. Serious concerns can be taken to EMU Housing and Residence Life.
Weapon safety
The student handbook states that weapons and explosives of any kind are prohibited on campus. In addition, students should never use replica weapons or toys in halls, including airsoft and foam dart guns, which can trigger EMU’s Zero Eyes gun-detection cameras.
Students who wish to feel safer are permitted to carry pepper spray, but they must register it with DPS and verify that they know how to use it safely. DPS often offers free pepper spray within the first weeks of the semester. Pepper spray is strictly prohibited from all athletic and large campus events.
Elliott and Zalba encouraged students to review their housing policies before and after arriving on campus. Those interested in learning more can access the student handbook or 26-27 HRL Guide to Campus Living online.
