Posted By Richard Mathews The evacuation of people is a high priority in case of fire and all persons likely to use the building need to be considered. But there are more things to consider here, the first priority should be preventing the fire in the first place. What does the risk assessment show regarding the likelihood and severity of a fire? What is the nature of the fuel for a fire and what would the ignition source be. If a fire did start how quickly would it spread and where would it be likely to spread to. On evacuation consider such things as escape routes and travel distance to a place of safety, are there any steps involved and if so will they have to be evacuated up or down the steps, is it a modern church or an old one in which adaptations may difficult to make. Is there any equipment that is suitable to aid disabled (or infirm) people in an evacuation (e.g. evac-chairs).

Posted By Merv Newman Oil man, rather than going on about risk assessments and different scenario, I will try to answer your specific question. The abled bodied of you congregation will of course be able to evacuate the building in the normal manner. The few elderly or infirm will require help. I would suggest that your brief certain regulars on being expected to hang back and give assistance as required. (two per person ?) Firm, guiding hands may be all that is required. If really, really necessary drop the zimmer frame, pick them up under the arms and GO. It would also be nice to brief those who may need such help. If they could be sure that assistance WILL be available you will avoid unnecessary stress should an evacuation be required. (everyone is running away and they are going to leave me behind !) It could also be a good idea to have an announced rehearsal one Sunday. Could you precede it by a sermon on hellfire and damnation ? Most churches I know have at least one secondary exit, through the vestry. May not meet modern specifications for emergency exits though. And a fire in an old wood-lined church roof CAN develop very very rapidly. (guess where the un-inspected lighting circuits run ? Merv (blessings on your emergency evacuation plan) Merv