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Fire Protection Features

Fire Alarm Systems

All residence halls are equipped with an automatic fire alarm system. These systems continuously monitor all building smoke detectors and heat detectors for hazardous conditions. Campus fire alarm systems immediately notify UNC Police in the event of an emergency.  UNC Police, in turn, can request fire department dispatch.  Each time a fire alarm activates, all residents are required to evacuate.  Post-evacuation, an RA (Resident Adviser) or Community Director fills out a report and sends it to the Housing office for record-keeping. Students are also able to activate manual pull stations in case of emergency.  Pull station activations will trigger the fire alarms in the building and will also automatically contact 911.

Fire Sprinkler Systems

All residence halls are protected by automatic fire sprinkler systems. These systems automatically release water to suppress fires when fire sprinkler heads detect temperatures above a threshold. Once activated, the fire sprinkler system also activates the building fire alarm system and requests a response from the fire department.

Range Hood Fire Protection Systems

All range hoods (“stove hoods”) located in communal kitchens are protected by a chemical fire protection system that is designed to extinguish grease and other cooking fires. Once activated, the range hood fire protection system also activates the building fire alarm system and requests a response from the fire department.

Plans for Future Improvements in Fire Safety

UNC assesses fire safety equipment on an on-going basis to determine if any improvements are necessary.  Currently, the institution does have improvements scheduled for fire safety.  Barring any unforeseen circumstances updates will include:

  • The Odum Village community was closed at the end of the Spring 2016 term. As a result of this closure, all student housing on campus is now equipped with an automatic sprinkler system.
  • The University is currently studying options for the replacement of its current fire alarm transmission system.
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