Almost every dormitory resident has had to trek downstairs in their pajamas for a fire drill at least once during their stay — but these drills prove more important, and effective, than students would think. 

This year’s annual University Security and Fire Report states that there were two residence-hall fires during 2021, one in Littlefield Hall and one in Roberts Hall. Both fires amounted to less than $100 in property damage.

Veronica Trevino, financial and administrative services media manager, said in an email that at least one fire drill is required every semester that a dormitory is occupied. When residence halls are left unattended during winter and summer breaks, fire drills run less frequently. 

The report shows that Dobie hasn’t had any fire drills, because the University acquired the property in spring 2022, and the report’s data comes from 2020 and 2021. Dobie has had one fire drill this semester, along with two additional drills during the spring and summer, Trevino said. 

Aaron Voyles, director of residence hall operations, said knowing the list of prohibited potential fire hazards in the residence hall manual plays a critical part in fire prevention. 

“We hope to provide that education for students and also hope that our students will take the opportunity to be a responsible member of their community,” Voyles said.

Julia Elias, a computer science sophomore, said that having fire drills and enforcing fire safety rules — like prohibiting certain items from dorms — can keep residents safe. She said fire drills have made her more confident in her ability to navigate a fire if it really happened.

“I think there is a need for a standard from the RA (to give students) a higher up perspective, so that freshmen are guided to uphold a certain standard (and) know how to handle an emergency,” said Elias, a San Jacinto dormitory resident. 

The University’s annual report shows that its security departments make regular changes to campus policies to match the changing landscape of the University, like the creation of the University Crisis Intervention Team in 2021.

“It is the intent of the University to provide an environment that addresses the issues of fire and life safety for students, faculty and staff,” the report said. “Improvements or potential changes in fire safety at the University are reviewed and any required changes are implemented on a timely basis.”