Health and Safety

In any population, physical, mental, and emotional health needs will vary from person to person. With this understanding, you are asked to respect the following guidelines:

• If you have a contagious condition that is spread through close living conditions you will be asked to see a physician and to follow all subsequent medical recommendations.
• If you are managing a mental health condition, you will be asked to take proactive steps to minimize any potential negative impact to the community. The Residence Staff can help facilitate this process by referrals to Counselling.
• Community living may not be appropriate for some students. Living in a community offers many benefits but also has the added stressor of living in close proximity with others. Should your actions or conditions negatively impact the community, Residence Staff will address the behaviour and work with you to provide support where possible.

Emergency Procedures

Fire/Evacuation Information

Failure to leave the building during a fire alarm is a violation of your Residence Community Living Standards. Floor meetings and fire drills will be held in your residence to help you become familiar with your residence’s evacuation procedures.

• Manually activate fire alarm system if you discover fire/smoke.
• Immediately exit the building, closing doors behind you if safe to do so and make your way to your muster area.
• DO NOT use elevators.
• DO NOT attempt to re-enter the building until instructed to do so by the Fire Department, Security, or Residence Staff.

Active Shooter/Dangerous Person

• If you learn of a dangerous person threatening the safety of individuals on campus, contact dial 911.
• Be prepared to provide a full description of the individual and their location.
• DO NOT approach the individual.
• Remove yourself from danger; if safe to do so, leave the area, if unable to leave, take shelter in-place.
• Individuals not immediately affected by the situation should Shelter-in-Place, staying away from windows and doors.

Medical Emergencies

• Contact the RA on duty.
• If condition is life threatening, call 911 and then notify Security so they can direct and assist emergency personnel.
• Be prepared to provide a full description of the nature of the condition.
• Provide first aid or medical assistance if trained and necessary;
• Remain with the person until emergency response personnel arrive.

Residence Safety Tips

Safety and security is everyone’s responsibility — for you and for your residence community.

Preventing Thefts

Thefts in residence can occur and you should take steps to protect your belongings. Keep your door locked when you are not in your room, retrieve your laundry promptly and do not give anyone your bank card or PIN. Keep valuables in a safe place and never lend your keys to anyone. Residents found to be engaged in unauthorized taking or appropriating of property from a roommate or from any member of the residence community is subject to incident outcomes. Please report any thefts to the Residence Office immediately. The University is not responsible for any lost or damaged goods, theft or otherwise, in residence. We strongly recommend you obtain insurance for your property. Ask your parents or guardian to contact their insurance company regarding coverage of your belongings.

Fraudulent Emails, Phone calls, Text Messages

Be aware of emails, phone calls, and/or text messages that ask for personal and financial information.

Any reputable business will never ask you for any sensitive information in this manner. For more information, visit the BU Help Desk IT Security webpage.