Emergency Evacuation of Persons with Physical
NOTE: The person with the disability is the best
authority on how to be moved.
On a ground-level floor, persons with physical disabilities
should evacuate via accessible exits along with the other occupants of the
building. On above or below-ground floors:
Visual Impairments
Most persons with visual impairments will be familiar with
their immediate surroundings. In the event of an emergency, tell the person
with a visual impairment the nature of the emergency and offer to guide the
person to the nearest emergency exit. Have the person take your elbow and
escort him or her out of the building. As you walk, tell the person where you
are and advise him or her of any obstacles. When you reach safety, orient the
person to where he or she is and ask if any further assistance is needed.
Hearing Impairments
Some persons with hearing impairments may not perceive
audio emergency alarms and will need to be alerted to the situation by gestures
or by turning the light switch off and on. Emergency instructions can be given
by verbalizing, mouthing, or by a short, explicit note. Example: Fire alarm
go out south doors now!
It is appropriate to assist a hearing-impaired person as
you leave the building.
Mobility Impairments
Since elevators should not be used for evacuation during a
fire alarm, persons with mobility impairments may need assistance in evacuating
unless they are on the ground floor with accessible exits. As persons with
mobility impairments have varying degrees of limitations, information is offered
for two possible scenarios: ambulatory and non-ambulatory impairments.
Ambulatory Mobility Impairments
Persons with mobility impairments who are able to walk
independently, either with or without the use of crutches or a cane, may be able
to negotiate stairs with minor assistance in an emergency. Even some persons
who customarily use a wheelchair or scooter for long distance travel may be able
to walk independently in an emergency. If individuals are able to walk up or
down stairs, it is advisable that they until the heavy traffic has cleared
before attempting to evacuate. Someone should walk beside the person to provide
assistance in exiting the building, if needed.
Non-Ambulatory Mobility Impairments
In keeping with current philosophy and preference to stay
in place, the most recent advice from fire and campus safety experts is that
wheelchair users should exit the building on their own if they can do so. If
they encounter stairs or otherwise cannot exit the building on their own,
wheelchair users should move to and remain at a designated area of rescue
assistance until emergency rescue personnel arrive. A specific person should be
designated to inform emergency personnel of the disabled persons location. If
rescue is deemed necessary, qualified personnel will assist in the evacuation.
(Adapted
from Bowling Green State University, Environmental Health and Safety, University
Police, and Disability Services)