Emergency and Evacuation Procedures Flashcards

What is the purpose of the 'defend in place' strategy during a building emergency?

Answer: To keep certain occupants sheltered in a protected area when evacuation is more dangerous than staying

Defend in place means keeping occupants in a protected location when conditions outside — such as a smoke-filled corridor or blocked exit — make evacuation more hazardous than sheltering.

After FDNY arrives at a fire scene, to whom should the Fire Safety Director report?

Answer: The FDNY Incident Commander

Upon FDNY arrival, the Fire Safety Director must immediately report to and assist the FDNY Incident Commander with building information and occupant status.

Which document must a Fire Safety Director make available to FDNY upon their arrival at a fire incident?

Answer: The Fire Safety and Evacuation Plan

The Fire Safety and Evacuation Plan must be kept on-site and presented to FDNY upon arrival so responders can quickly understand the building's layout and emergency procedures.

During a fire drill, an occupant refuses to evacuate and remains at their desk. What should the staff warden do?

Answer: Note the occupant's refusal and report it to the Fire Safety Director after the drill

Wardens cannot physically force participation; they should note noncompliant occupants and report this to the Fire Safety Director so corrective action can be taken.

What is the correct way for an occupant to test a closed door during a fire before opening it?

Answer: Use the back of the hand to feel the door and doorknob for heat

Touching a door with the back of the hand — never the palm — before opening allows detection of heat without risking a burn that could prevent door closure.

A staff warden completes a floor sweep and cannot locate two employees. What is the required next step?

Answer: Report the missing persons immediately to the Fire Safety Director with their names and last known locations

Missing occupants must be reported immediately to the Fire Safety Director, who will relay the information to FDNY so a targeted search can be conducted.

What is the primary function of the designated assembly area in a building evacuation plan?

Answer: To provide a safe location away from the building where occupant accountability can be confirmed

The assembly area provides a safe, pre-identified location outside the building where wardens can take headcounts and confirm all occupants have successfully evacuated.