As winter weather ramps up, the ETSU Housing and Residence Life continues to ensure that residents are staying safe and healthy. 

Director of Housing and Residence Life Bonnie Burchett said housing tackles issues derived from winter weather with preventative measures. Housing conducts checks regularly, changes filters and drains sprinklers during single-digit temperatures

Burchett said that their biggest concern during this time of year is the heating and condition of the units within residence halls. Besides regular checks, housing relies on student reports/work orders to make sure the units are working properly. During the winter storm over the first week of classes, students who reported issues with their heating units were taken care of with portable heaters. “There were quite a number of portable heaters that were put out,” said Burchett.  

Another area of importance for housing is ensuring that on-campus residences have access to the dining hall during severe winter weather. Burchett shared that the university’s grounds crew works to clear routes to the dining hall along with pretreating sidewalks with salt.

Photo of the ETSU sidewalk during the snow. (Seneca Rulison/East Tennessean)

Burchett advises residents to look out for any running water in their rooms. Leaks can potentially damage floors or ceilings and lead to mold in some cases. “Anytime you see a leak of water or dampness where there shouldn’t be dampness, report it immediately,” said Burchett.  

Burchett stressed that students should report anything concerning in their rooms immediately, as it is the quickest way for maintenance to help. Students can send in a work order even if they are unsure of what the problem is. “We’d rather go look at it and see what it is to address it early on,” said Burchett, “that’s being proactive.” 

Students should stay equipped for any potential winter storms during the spring semester. “The big thing is to be prepared,” said Burchett, “…have some food, have blankets, and dress warmly.” 

Burchett shared that students should regularly check their texts and emails for communication from housing or the university and stay up to date with the local forecast. If students need to get out during winter storms, they should periodically check in with people. “I know it’s a fun time, I know some students like to be out, just be smart and heed warnings,” said Burchett.

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