Fire Evacuation Procedures Flashcards

What is the RACE acronym used for in healthcare fire evacuation procedures?

Answer: Rescue, Alarm, Contain, Extinguish or Evacuate

RACE stands for Rescue persons in danger, Alarm the system, Contain the fire by closing doors, and Extinguish or Evacuate.

Why should doors be closed (but not locked) during a building fire evacuation?

Answer: Closed doors slow fire and smoke spread, buying time for evacuation

A closed door can significantly slow the spread of fire and smoke, giving occupants and firefighters more time.

Which individuals require special assistance planning during a building fire evacuation?

Answer: Persons with disabilities or mobility limitations

OSHA and fire codes require employers to have plans for evacuating individuals who need assistance, such as those with mobility impairments.

What is an 'area of refuge' in a building evacuation plan?

Answer: A fire-rated space where mobility-impaired persons wait for assisted rescue

An area of refuge is a fire-rated compartment or stairwell landing where individuals who cannot use stairs can safely wait for firefighter assistance.

After a successful fire evacuation, who has the authority to allow occupants to re-enter the building?

Answer: The incident commander or fire department official

Only the fire department incident commander can declare a building safe for re-entry after a fire emergency.

What does a two-stage fire alarm system do differently from a single-stage system?

Answer: It alerts occupants to stand by before giving the full evacuation signal

A two-stage alarm first sounds an alert tone to warn and prepare occupants, then escalates to a full evacuation signal if the threat is confirmed.