Emergency Evacuation Procedures: A Guide for Fire Wardens
Welcome to this critical training on emergency evacuation procedures. As fire wardens, you hold the responsibility for guiding others to safety during emergencies when seconds can mean the difference between life and death.
This presentation will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to execute your duties effectively. We'll cover evacuation plans, alarm protocols, assembly procedures, and supporting those who need assistance during emergencies.
Remember: your preparedness today ensures everyone's safety tomorrow.
IA
by Ian Abrahams
Understanding Evacuation Routes
Know Your Map
Familiarize yourself with all exit routes and alternate paths on your floor's evacuation map
Identify Key Points
Locate all emergency exits, fire doors, and stairwells in advance
Plan Backup Routes
Prepare alternate evacuation paths in case primary routes are blocked
Lead With Confidence
Practice routes regularly so you can guide others calmly during emergencies
When an emergency strikes, hesitation costs precious seconds. Your thorough knowledge of evacuation routes is crucial. Walk these paths regularly during normal conditions to build muscle memory that will serve you under pressure.
Raising the Alarm
Spot the Emergency
Upon discovering a fire or receiving an alert about one, remain calm and assess the situation quickly
Activate the Alarm
Immediately locate and activate the nearest fire alarm pull station or emergency call point
Call Emergency Services
Dial the emergency number (911) even if you believe someone else may have already called
Begin Evacuation Procedures
Start directing people toward exits using your pre-established evacuation routes
Never assume someone else has raised the alarm. Multiple alerts are better than none. Your decisive action in these first moments establishes the tone for an effective evacuation and could save countless lives.
Assembly Point Management
Designated Locations
Know your building's primary and alternate assembly points
Roll Call
Account for all personnel from your assigned area
Communication
Report missing persons to emergency coordinators immediately
Control
Keep everyone at the assembly point until official all-clear
The assembly point is where accountability happens. As a fire warden, your role shifts from evacuation to accounting once outside. Maintain order and ensure no one leaves or re-enters the building until authorized by emergency services.
Practice assembly point procedures during drills to identify and resolve any issues before a real emergency occurs.
Assisting Vulnerable Individuals
Mobility Challenges
Know who requires mobility assistance in your area and be familiar with evacuation chairs or devices
Ensure pathways to exits remain clear at all times
Sensory Impairments
Establish specific protocols for alerting individuals with hearing or visual impairments
Consider having pre-assigned buddies for these situations
Stress Reactions
Be prepared to assist those experiencing panic or high stress during emergencies
Use clear, simple instructions and remain calm yourself
Your role as a fire warden includes identifying and planning for those who need additional support. Before an emergency occurs, speak with individuals who might need assistance to develop personalized evacuation plans. This preparation demonstrates both professionalism and compassion.
Conducting Effective Headcounts
Initial Check
Begin headcount immediately upon reaching the assembly point
Missing Persons
Note anyone unaccounted for, including their last known location
Report Status
Communicate findings to emergency coordinator or first responders
Continuous Monitoring
Update your headcount as more people arrive at the assembly point
Accurate headcounts are critical for emergency responders. Use whatever tools are available—roster sheets, department lists, or your knowledge of who was present that day. Report missing persons immediately, providing as much detail as possible about where they might be.
Remember: your job is to inform professionals, not to re-enter the building to search.
Fire Extinguisher Usage: PASS Technique
PULL the Pin
Remove the safety pin by pulling it straight out
AIM at the Base
Point the nozzle at the base where flames meet fuel
SQUEEZE the Handle
Apply firm, steady pressure to release extinguishing agent
SWEEP Side to Side
Move the stream horizontally across the base of the fire
Only attempt to fight a fire if it's small (no larger than a wastebasket), you have a clear escape path, and you feel confident in your ability. If you have any doubts about your safety or the manageability of the fire, evacuate immediately.
Never turn your back on a fire, even if you believe it's extinguished. Back away slowly, maintaining visual contact in case of reignition.
Extinguisher Types and Applications
Using the wrong extinguisher can worsen a fire or create new hazards. Take time now to identify which types are available in your workplace and their exact locations. Most facilities will have extinguishers placed near exits so you can grab one on your way to the fire without being trapped.
Remember that extinguishers have limited discharge time—typically 10-15 seconds. Use them only when you're confident they'll be effective and always prioritize evacuation over firefighting.