Request a "red light" cold-temp alarm if you are away

Frozen pipes are the leading cause of catastrophic water damage to tenant’s personal belongings and college housing unit.

If your plans involve leaving your residence for an extended weekend or longer, we ask that you submit a request to install a “red light” cold-temperature alarm through the Facilities online work order system. Use your Google login and password to login into the FMS: Workplace portal.

When placed in a visible window, this red light will alert Williams’ Security personnel of a potentially emergency low-temperature condition in your house or apartment and could avert a catastrophic pipe freeze.

Please do this a week in advance of your departure.  It is very important that you give us accurate dates of both departure and return to your unit.  If you find you are going to be delayed beyond the date given in the work request, notify Sharon Marceau at [email protected] or 597-2195 so the light isn’t removed too soon.

Please leave the thermostat in your unit no lower than 55 degrees when you are away. Do not turn off your heat!

When the red light is installed, we will also check the level of fuel (in units with oil heat).  If the fuel level is insufficient to carry you through the period you’ll be away, we’ll ask you to get a delivery scheduled before your departure.  Units left without sufficient fuel can cause serious damage that you would be responsible for.  If you are unsure of how to calculate the amount of fuel you’ll need, we will be happy to assist you.

If you are going away and leaving someone with your key and permission to house sit or watch your pet, please let Sharon know.  Also, alert Campus Security at 597-4444.  In the event of a lost key or lock-out, CSS will not not open the door for someone without your express permission.