It’s vital that you consider the needs of disabled individuals in your fire and emergency evacuation policies.

Issues to consider when creating a policy for disabled individuals include:

• Identifying a named person(s) who is responsible for assisting or ensuring that each disabled individual evacuates safely. More than one is preferred to ensure a thorough coverage of support
• Ensuring that the disabled individual is aware of their personal evacuation procedure (including named helpers, specific route, and any specific requirements regarding where to assemble)
• Identifying the safest area located on each floor within the building to which a person with disabilities can be moved or directed to to await assistance if full evacuation is not possible
• Discussing how to assist the individual with a disability without causing injury should the need arise.

Here is more information on inclusive emergency evacuation preparedness for people with disabilities from the SCDF.