Appendix G:

Residence Halls

Damage or Destruction to Drake Property by Use of Fire of Explosives

Pursuant to the Safe Explosives Act, 18 U.S.C. § 884 (f), persons who maliciously damage or destroy, or attempt to damage or destroy, by means of fire or explosive, any building, vehicle or other property owned by a college or university receiving federal financial assistance (such as Drake University) may be imprisoned for not less than five years and not more than 20 years, plus receive a fine, or both. If personal injury occurs, then the sentence rises to seven to 40 years, plus a fine, or both. If the conduct causes the death of another, then the perpetrator can be subject to the death penalty, or imprisoned for not less than 20 years to life, fined or both.

Fireworks

The possession or use of firecrackers, bottle rockets or other materials which may endanger a person’s health or safety is prohibited and could result in dismissal from the residence halls and/or the University.

Fire Hazards

Anything which may create a safety or fire hazard is not allowed in the residence halls. This includes but is not limited to candles, incense, hookah pipes, large wall hangings or wall paneling. The use of extension cords and/or multi-plug adapters shall not be used in residence hall rooms unless the device is equipped with a maximum 15-amp circuit breaker and complies with the National Electric code. This policy is in accordance to the Uniform Fire Code and City of Des Moines Housing Code. Drake University carries no insurance covering personal property that may be destroyed by fire. The University suggests that students obtain insurance coverage for all personal property if they do not have such coverage already.

Lighter fluid may be used to refill lighters, but is considered a dangerous combustible. Cooking equipment with exposed heating elements (i.e., toaster, toaster oven, hot plates, or George Foreman grills) is not allowed in the rooms. Circuits can be easily overloaded by simultaneous operation of electrical equipment such as hair dryers, stereos, televisions and refrigerators.Guests.
Residents may have overnight guests in the residence halls for a maximum of four nights at a time. Both roommates must consent to any overnight guests. Individual halls may establish their own regulations within the limits of this policy. Overnight guests must register at the desk of the residence where they will stay. Guests who enter the residence halls after the doors are locked must check in and leave their picture IDs at the hall front desk. Residents must meet their guests at the hall front desk after the hall doors are locked and escort them throughout the building. Guests must use the bathroom facilities designated for their gender and may not sleep in any lounge areas.

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Guest Policy Violations

All visitors and guests must abide by University and residence hall policies. Residents are responsible for the actions of their guests at  all times. If violations of policies do occur, guests or visitors will be removed from the hall and future admittance to the hall may be restricted.

Musical Instruments and Equipment

No musical instruments may be played in residents’ rooms during quiet hours. Non-amplified instruments are allowed in the lobbies during designated hours. Amplified musical instruments and drums are not allowed unless listened to through headphones. Students are encouraged to use practice facilities at the Fine Arts Center.

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No Smoking

Smoking is not permitted in the residence halls. Smoking is permitted in designated areas outside of the residence halls.

Quiet Hours

Quiet hours are determined by each residence hall by a vote of residents. Courtesy hours are in effect 24 hours a day. Constant noise complaints during courtesy hours may result in disciplinary action.

While quiet hours are in effect, residents are not to disturb others with musical sound equipment, televisions or by speaking loudly.

No noise should be heard in the hallways during quiet times. Residents may lose the right to use their musical sound equipment and television if this policy is violated. Noise caused by guests is the responsibility of the host. Consideration for others should always be observed.


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Reasonable Request by Residence Hall Staff

The residence hall staff is responsible for helping to create a secure atmosphere conducive to studying, socializing and learning to live with other individuals. Each resident is expected to respond appropriately to requests from staff and fellow residents concerning behavior that disrupts this secure atmosphere. The refusal to obey the reasonable request of a University staff member acting within the scope of his or her authority under circumstances where such refusal interferes with the regular and proper performance of that staff person’s duties is considered a serious violation and may result in disciplinary action.

Additionally, threats toward and/or physical contact with a residence hall staff member in the performance of their duties are considered serious violations which may result in immediate removal from the residence hall. A student has the right to a hearing following the removal.

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Smoke Detectors

Residents are responsible for the smoke detectors in their rooms. Smoke detectors are required in all residence hall rooms by Des Moines city ordinance. If a smoke detector malfunctions, remove it from the ceiling and disconnect the battery. Report the faulty detectors to your resident assistant immediately. Keep the smoke detector in the room in plain view for a maintenance person to repair it. Staff members are the only people who may remove a detector in the hallway. Facilities Services will restore the detector no later than 4 p.m. of the first working day after it is reported. Residents are billed for damaged or missing detectors at checkout.


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Visitation Hours

Men and women may visit in each other’s rooms 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A floor may restrict visitation hours if so desired. Limitations must be approved by a written ballot with a two-thirds majority of all floor members. If the restriction later is deemed unsatisfactory by a majority of floor members, the restriction shall be revoked immediately.


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