At approximately 6:40 p.m. Tuesday, the fire alarm in the University Center went off, evacuating the building. After 20 minutes, police and fire fighters allowed students and others back into the building, although the dining hall remains closed.

p. A UC employee and a police officer both confirmed that a fire started in the kitchen, although they did not say what exactly started it. About one month ago the UC was closed when a kitchen toaster caused a small electrical fire.

p. Officials said the dining hall will reopen once health inspectors deem it safe. Last month the dining hall was reopened in time for breakfast the next morning.