Emergency Evacuation Plan Using a Simple Card System

April 07, 2011

Looking for an effective (and simple) way of handling emergency evacuations (e.g. fire)? Here’s an idea from Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

• Print a series of ‘Instruction Cards’ (see examples below)

• Store Cards in central, accessible location (e.g. Front Desk)

• Train staff on use of Cards AND conduct practice drills

• When an emergency occurs (e.g. fire alarm), staff go to central location

• Cards are handed out randomly

• Staff follow instructions printed on their Card

Simple and effective, this plan ensures that all areas are covered – and does not rely on certain staff being present to handle specific tasks — i.e. resolves the issue of absent staff (vacations, sickness etc,).

Samples of Cards:

Card #1
CHECK AND EVACUATE
Men’s Locker Room
Varsity Locker Room
Main Gym & Gym Storage

Card #2
CHECK AND EVACUATE
Peak Performance Room
Group Fitness Room
Lower Squash courts