How to Create a Fire Evacuation Plan for Your Business

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

We can help with any fire damage that may occur at your commercial property. Give us a call at 573-756-5191.

Few people expect to see their commercial property engulfed in flames. No one expects to see a grease fire in the break room, either. No matter what size fire occurs at your place of business, having a contingency plan can help save lives, valuable records and equipment, and money. Here's how to make one.

1. Assign Roles
   
   Delegating tasks and responsibilities now, when things are calm, can reduce the confusion and chaos accompanying an event such as an office fire. Consider assigning roles such as the following:

• Fire extinguishers that'll use the actual fire extinguishers to snuff out small blazes.
• Get-out guides that'll keep exit routes clear and make sure everyone is out of the building before they leave.
• Attendance takers that'll perform a roll call outside to ensure that everyone is accounted for.

Having a job to perform and having others point you in the right direction may reduce the urge to panic.

2. Plan, Post, and Practice Your Evacuation Route
   
   It's important to have multiple ways to exit your building if a fire occurs. Plan these escape routes ahead of time so that your contingency plan can be posted and regularly practiced by all employees. That way, if the unthinkable happens, you and your staff will know exactly where to go, thanks to your well-rehearsed evacuation plan.
3. Set Up a Clear Chain of Communication
   
   In a fire, knowledge is power. To keep misinformation from spreading, it's often wise to devise a clear communication plan. A straightforward method is to create a chain of command, unlike an old school phone tree, where individuals are tasked with relaying information to those underneath them on the tree. It's smart to have a single spokesperson who communicates with the public or news outlets.

A fire doesn't have to spell catastrophe for your commercial property. By creating a plan in advance, you can better protect your employees' safety. After everyone is safe, you can leave the fire cleanup to the professionals. Contact SERVPRO of Southern and Central Jefferson County at 636-467-5444.