Mingus Smoke Detectors

A Mingus Smoke Detector

To the Freshmen of the Mingus Mountain Complex. In each and every room of every suite, of every building you will see circular objects attached high on the inside wall. These are smoke detectors. There are some things you need to know about these before you arrive so you don't find out how they work the hard way.

These smoke detectors are extremely sensitive and not just to smoke. These sensors detect smoke by using a small laser beam which can detect increases in particulates in the air. This means that anything that creates a cloud sets off these detectors. That includes steam, deodorant, and cleaning spray.

So, with that being said, take precautions. If you are taking a shower in a suite please close all interior doors so that the steam cannot waft into rooms and set off the fire alarms. If you are cleaning, open a window and give a wide berth around the detector, and finally for those who sleep next to a detector, because they have a lofted bed, try not to bump it too often as this could also set off the fire alarms.

These sensors are nice to you if you are nice to them. Just remember that they are there whenever you are about to make a cloud of something or are about to have a pillow fight. If you do not you will end up out on the sidewalk at 3:00 AM with a lot of angry people around. And did I mention that there is a possible fine of $100 for an accidental tripping of a smoke detector.

Note: Burned Popcorn is the number one reason for these detectors to be set off. Please stand by the microwave when making this snack and maybe open the bag outside of the suite to let all of the steam out.

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO GET AROUND THE SMOKE DETECTORS BY COVERING THEM. THIS IS A VIOLATION OF UNIVERSITY POLICY AND REALLY DOES VERY LITTLE TO STOP IT GOING OFF.