Means of Egress: Keeping People Safe in Emergencies

Means of egress refers to the routes and exits that people can use to safely evacuate a building or structure during an emergency. This includes doors, stairways, and other exits, as well as any signs or lighting that guide people to the exits.

Firefighters are responsible for ensuring that means of egress are clear and functional during an emergency. They will typically check for any obstructions or hazards that could block or slow down the evacuation of a building, and take steps to remove them. Firefighters may also assist people with disabilities or other special needs in evacuating the building.

Means of egress are particularly important in high-rise buildings, where the evacuation can be more complex and time-consuming. Firefighters must be familiar with the layout of the building and the location of the exits, and they must work quickly to evacuate people and get them to safety.