UMass Fire Today provides real-time tracking and safety updates for active fires and hazards across the University of Massachusetts campuses. This page helps students, staff, and nearby residents stay informed about current incidents, response efforts, and campus protocols.
Below is a quick reference to today’s situation, followed by deeper sections on evacuation routes, communication channels, prevention strategies, and common questions. Use this guide to understand what is happening and what steps to take next.
| Incident | Location | Status | Reported Time | Campus Response |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Building Smoke Investigation | Student Union Basement | Under Review | 08:42 AM | Evacuation Completed, Fire Dept On Site |
| Brush Fire Near Parking Lot 5 | West Amherst Border | Contained | 09:15 AM | UMass Safety Coordinating with Local Fire |
| Electrical Smell in Engineering Hall | Facilities Basement | Clearance Ongoing | 10:05 AM | Power Isolated, Inspection in Progress |
| Medical Emergency Near Campus Center | Main Campus Entrance | Transport Completed | 10:40 AM | EMS Assisted, Area Cleared |
Evacuation Routes and Assembly Points
Primary Exits for UMass Amherst Main Campus
Know the two main evacuation routes from academic buildings: the north stairwells leading to North Pleasant Street and the south exits opening to Campus Center Drive. Both routes are mapped on posted diagrams and updated in the UMass Safety app.
Designated Assembly Locations
During a full evacuation, proceed to one of the following assembly points to be accounted for: Alumni Field, Herter Parking Lot, or the Southwest Sports Field. Safety staff will direct individuals away from active hazard zones.
Communication Channels and Alerts
How UMass Broadcasts Emergency Information
The university uses RAVE Guardian, campus email, and digital signage in hallways to deliver timely alerts. Siren patterns differ depending on the event, with continuous horns indicating shelter-in-place and intermittent signals indicating evacuation.
What to Monitor During an Incident
Check the UMass Police and Fire Today pages for live updates, follow verified social accounts, and tune into local radio stations recommended by campus officials. Avoid unverified rumors and rely on official channels only.
Prevention and Preparedness Measures
Building Safety Inspections
Facilities crews conduct weekly checks of fire alarms, extinguishers, and emergency lighting. Any faults found are logged and remedied according to a priority schedule shared with department heads.
Drills and Training
Students and staff receive annual fire safety training, including how to use extinguishers, read signage, and respond to alarms. Participation is tracked and reviewed by the Office of Environmental Health and Safety.
Staying Prepared on Campus
- Review evacuation maps posted in every building and saved in the UMass Safety app.
- Know the location of the nearest stairwell, fire extinguisher, and emergency pull station.
- Keep a small emergency kit with essentials in your dorm room or workspace.
- Participate in fire drills and review shelter-in-place procedures regularly.
- Stay connected to official UMass alerts and update your contact information each semester.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is it safe to remain in my dorm if there is smoke in the hallway?
If smoke is entering your room, seal gaps around doors, cover vents, and move to the safest internal room away from the hallway. Call 911 and UMass Police with your exact location and wait for instructions.
What should I do if I see a small fire in a lab?
Activate the nearest fire alarm, evacuate immediately, and close doors behind you to slow the spread. Report the incident to UMass Police once you are in a safe location.
Will my classes be canceled if there is a fire on campus?
Class cancellations are decided by central administration based on incident severity, evacuation needs, and facility assessments. Check your student portal and official communication channels for the latest updates.
How can I report a fire hazard or unsafe condition?
Submit a report through the campus safety portal or call the non-emergency police line. Include location details, photos if safe, and a brief description so Facilities can respond promptly.