4 Essential Components of a Fire Escape Plan

2/26/2020 (Permalink)

A plan can only work if it clearly communicated and tested.

Businesses in Doylestown, PA, know to protect their main asset—their employees— is a top priority. If a fire breaks out, fire damage professionals can get the physical structure back to working order. When it comes to employees, clients, vendors, and visitors, having a fire escape plan is essential to safety. Below are four key components every emergency escape plan should include.

1. Risk Assessment
Understand what kind of fire risks may affect your business. Even if your business operates out of an office, risks exist. A kitchen with a stove, space heaters or hot plates could all cause a fire. Older buildings could have faulty wiring unable to withstand the numerous devices plugged in.
A fire escape plan should clearly establish leaders to direct the evacuation and the other roles necessary to assist with the situation. Defined roles should include someone responsible for performing headcounts at a safe location and ensuring doors is closed, a person designated to sound the alarm and call 911, route guides to ensure a clear path, and monitors to check that every area is clear.

2. Plan Routes
Every plan should have a primary and secondary evacuation path. A map should be drawn up that shows both routes and posted throughout a facility. Additionally, a location should be designated as a safe place where everyone meets. Once at the safe location, have a plan in place to account for everyone’s safety.

3. Tool Use
Along with regularly testing fire alarms, sprinkler systems, extinguishers, and fire ladders, ensure employees know how to use them. Discuss other ways your team members can use everyday supplies to assist with a safe evacuation, such as using a chair to break a window.

4. Testing
A plan can only work if it clearly communicated and tested. Like students at school, going through a fire drill can help adults understand what an emergency situation may look like and help keep the evacuation more calm and smooth.
While hopefully your business never has to enact a fire escape plan, having one in place is vital for everyone’s safety.