Escape Routes 3

Continued from: Escape Routes Part 2

A primary objective of every operational fire plan is to keep firefighters out of entrapment situations. However, firefighters must always be prepared to escape quickly to a safety zone or deployment area. Consider the following while discussing escape from possible entrapment.

Have a plan that includes trigger points.

• Trigger Point: An observable event that triggers a pre-determined action.
  Example: If the temperature reaches 98 °F and relative humidity (RH) goes into single digits, the crew will follow the established escape route to the safety zone.

Reassess escape routes throughout the operational period.

• Does access to escape routes become more difficult as the day progresses?
• Do you have more than one escape route?
• Are all escape routes clearly marked?
• Are all firefighters familiar with the escape routes?

During an escape, time will be short. Describe considerations in this situation such as:

• Maintain all critical equipment such as personal protective equipment (PPE) and radio. Discard gear that will not aid in your escape.
• Maintain contact with all other crewmembers.

Describe a good safety zone. How is that different from a deployment area?

You should always know the location of your escape routes leading to safety zones and deployment areas.

Also see: Escape Routes Part 1 (Take 5@2)