Fire Evacuation Warnings

Fire evacuation warnings can range from highly automated to manual. The type of fire evacuation warning used is dependent upon the type of location or facility and the people who are in the area and would need to be notified of an evacuation. Hybrid solutions where more than one type of evacuation warning is used is the best way to ensure that a fire evacuation is communicated properly.

Alarms

• Alarm systems can be used in any type or size facility as they can scale from small to large scale systems. A fire evacuation alarm is an integrated building system that is triggered by smoke detection systems and smoke detectors. The alarm sounds to alert people in a building or area to evacuate due to a fire. The alarm system can also be tied to other building control systems such as sprinkler systems, electrical systems and access control systems to turn of power, turn on sprinklers or even open door locks in the event of a fire and subsequent evacuation.

Public Address System

• Use a public address system or a paging system for announcing an evacuation due to a fire. The system can make computer-driven automated announcements over the public or the paging system. It also manual function for someone making verbal announcements through a microphone attached to the system. Public address systems are present in small offices, large stadiums or other public venues.

Flashing Lights

• Use flashing and strobe lights for a fire evacuation warning to help show people how to exit a facility or area. Use to point out available exit areas such as doors and stairwells. Lights can and should be used in conjunction with an audio warning such as an alarm or paging system. Strategically place lights help to direct and guide people to safety.

Word of Mouth / Phone Tree / Texting

• Fire evacuation warnings should be executed quickly and efficiently. Using technology such as cell phones, smart phones, email and instant warning systems that prompt alerts to flash on computer screens are all technology driven warning systems that be used. Phone trees and calling people is another way in which to communicate a fire evacuation warning. There are programs and applications available which automate this type of warning system that sends blast announcements and information to multiple people using various devices.

Bullhorn

• A bullhorn is a manual warning advice useful in announcing a fire evacuation or other emergencies. Use a bullhorn in conjunction with an automated system. This ensures a backup method should an automated system fails. Bullhorns are inexpensive, portable and easy to use, which makes them a good choice when selecting warning devices and equipment.