Evacuation behavior: escape routes and assembly points

In short: During an evacuation, what matters most is staying calm, using known escape routes, and reporting to the designated assembly point. Anyone who familiarizes themselves beforehand with the escape routes at home, work, or in public buildings reacts significantly more safely in an emergency.

In more detail: Panic and blind flight significantly increase the risk of injury, while calm, orderly behavior shortens evacuation time for everyone involved.

In detail

• Know the escape routes: At home, at work, and in frequently visited buildings, it’s worth consciously noting emergency exits before an emergency occurs.
• Avoid elevators: During a fire alarm or power outage, elevators must not be used, since they can get stuck or fail.
• Head to the assembly point: A fixed outdoor meeting spot allows rescuers to quickly determine whether everyone has left the building.
• Take only essential items: Bring only indispensable things like ID, medication, or phone; don’t waste time searching for anything else.
• Help others without endangering yourself: People with limited mobility should be supported, without putting yourself in unnecessary danger.
• Close doors: Closing but not locking doors behind you can delay the spread of fire or smoke.
• Follow instructions from emergency responders: Rescue personnel have an overall view of the situation; their instructions should always be followed (brandschutz-und-verhalten-im-brandfall).