How would employees escape from your worksite in the event of an emergency? Do they know where all the exit routes are in case their first choice is too crowded? Are they sure doors will be unlocked? Did they consider that other exits–like hallways–may be blocked during a fire, explosion or other crisis?

Share the following evacuation tips with employees to help them prepare for and take action during an emergency. Be sure to check out our Resource Centre for more tips and lists.

Evacuation Preparation

• Familiarize yourself with the emergency evacuation plan.
• Know the pathway to at least two alternative exits from every room or area at the workplace.
• Recognize the sounds or signalling method of the fire and evacuation alarms.
• Know who to contact in an emergency and how to contact them.
• Know how many desks or cubicles are between your workstation and two of the nearest exits so you can escape in the dark, if necessary.
• Know where the fire and evacuation alarms are located and how to use them.
• Report any damaged or malfunctioning safety systems and back-up systems.

Evacuating Safely

• Leave the area quickly, but in an orderly manner, following ’s emergency evacuation plan.
• Go directly to the nearest fire-free and smoke-free stairwell, recognizing that in some circumstances the only available exit route may contain limited amounts of smoke or fire.
• Listen carefully for instructions.
• Crawl low, under the smoke, to breathe cleaner air if there is a fire.
• Test doors for heat before opening them by placing the back of your hand against the door so you do not burn your palm and fingers.
• Do not open a hot door; find another exit route.
• Keep fire doors closed to slow the spread of smoke and fire.
• Avoid using elevators when evacuating.
• Report to the designated meeting place.
• Do not re-enter the building until directed by authorities.

If You Are Trapped

• Stay calm and take steps to protect yourself.
• Go to a room with an outside window, and call for help if possible.
• Stay where rescuers can see you and wave a light-coloured cloth to attract attention.
• Open windows if possible, but be ready to shut them if smoke rushes in.
• Stuff clothing, towels or newspapers around the cracks in doors to prevent smoke from entering your room.

Preparing in advance to safely evacuate a building or worksite can be critical to employees’ safety. Have them take the time now to think about evacuation procedures and how they would respond in an emergency.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to give us a call.