In response to the large number of false fire alarms in Mitchell Hall, the University Police Department will install covers for the alarms in the building this week.

UPD Chief Dolores Statfford said in addition to installing the covers, which emit a loud sound when an alarm is pulled, the department is conducting a complete security survey of the residence hall. About six false alarms sounded within a single week at the end of February – an occurrence residents said is unfortunately all too common.

“UPD has identified at least one culprit this week,” she said last week.

While residents are pleased UPD has taken action, some are skeptical of how well the covers will work. Other suggestions students have made are covers that spray ink when opened, and cameras located near the fire alarms.

“They’re not going to help. They’re going to beep, people are going to run, and they’ll still get away with it,” said Sophomore Harry Dobelle. “I think that at the end of the day they need to take more drastic action.”

Dobelle said he is somewhat uncomfortable with 24-hour surveillance in the hallways, but if it was necessary to stop the false fire alarms it would be worth it.

Sophomore Mark Dauigoy said he is grateful that the University has taken the time to address students’ concerns. He also thought the students pulling the alarms for fun were inconsiderate.

“It seems like Mitchell is forgotten out of all the dorms. It has the worst reputation,” he said. “(Since) they’re going to (increase) the security here, maybe people can stop acting like little kids.”