The roof of Fulbright Hall, a student residence hall at George Washington University, remains closed until further notice after a fire early Tuesday morning in which there were no injuries, according to university officials.
The George Washington University Police Department and D.C. Fire and EMS responded at 3:15 a.m. Tuesday to a fire alarm at Fulbright Hall, 2223 H St. NW, according to a university statement.
Following an inspection, responders confirmed flames on the roof and helped students evacuate the building. D.C. Fire put out the flames within 15 minutes. An investigation of the cause of the fire is underway.
No injuries were reported from the incident and students have reoccupied the building. The Division of Student Affairs is working to address student and parent concerns.
The GW Division of Operations found limited damage to the building following an initial evalauation. The Operations team continues to assess the building for water and other damage to upper floors.
The eight-story residence hall is home to 225 second-year students. Student residents are encouraged to report any damage to their unit by submitting a FixIt request to GW Facilities Services.
The GW Office of Health and Safety performs three to four annual safety inspections of each residence hall, according to GW’s annual 2014-15 Safety and Security Report. A full sprinkler system, fire extinguishers and smoke detection are among the fire safety devices in place at Fulbright Hall. Residents participate in two evacuation drills each year.
Student residents also are required to comply with Residential Community Conduct Guidelines, which outlaw potentially hazardous items including hot plates, flammable liquids, lanterns and candles. A full list of prohibited items is listed in the report.