On Oct. 16 at approximately 11:40 a.m., Bellows Academic Building (BA) lost power, causing the fire alarms to go off. The alarms went on for some time afterwards silencing at approximately 12:10 p.m. while the lights of the alarms stayed on for a significant time longer ending some time past 1:00 p.m. 

The areas that lost power were Human Resources, Academic Deans, McFarland Library, Mustang Market, Post Office/Duplicating, Civic Engagement, Health Services and IT.  

When asked what caused the power to go out Tony Nubile, Director of Facilities, said, “We believe there was an electrical power surge and it compromised the boiler on the 5th floor of the library which led to Bellows Academic losing a 500-amp fuse from the main electrical distribution system, causing us to lose power.” 

Nubile wanted to add how appreciatory he is of the campus’ support and understanding as they worked to solve the issue.  

 The alarms interrupted students, classes and clubs meeting during that time. One club that was meeting during that time was EMAE, they had their meeting in the opening in upper BA.  

As some classes were disrupted there were some classes in the BA area that didn’t hear the alarms, rising concerns that the alarms are too quiet.