A disorganized evacuation can result in confusion, injury, and property damage. Use the following checklist to help evaluate your next evacuation or shelter-in-place exercise. 

  • The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) has been reviewed and includes written evacuation procedures.
  • The drill tests the effectiveness of communicating evacuation procedures to clergy, personnel, and visitors.
  • Safety Wardens have an opportunity to practice the skills they were trained on based on their roles.
  • The drill tests the effectiveness of illuminated exit signs to indicate the way to exits and shelters.
  • The drill tests the suitability of exit routes for people who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices.
  • Elevators are generally not recommended as a way to reach an emergency exit but are permitted in certain situations.
  • At least annually, all exit routes are inspected for obstructions and debris.
  • Exit routes are chosen to protect personnel, clergy, and members, from additional hazards.
  • Evacuation procedures, shelters, and exit routes are marked on floor plans that are posted throughout the place of worship.
  • Shelter and assembly areas are well marked.
  • Evacuation routes to shelters and assembly areas will not hinder emergency response efforts.
  • The EAP has identified personnel, clergy, or members with disabilities who may need help evacuating and assigned one or more people, including backup personnel, to assist them during an emergency.
  • The EAP has procedures for assisting clergy, visitors and personnel to evacuate, particularly those who may not speak the dominant language.
  • The EAP has identified key personnel to perform critical shutdown operations or other duties before evacuating to a shelter or assembly area.
  • The EAP includes a procedure to account for personnel and members during an evacuation.
  • The EAP has recommended types and adequate amounts of safety and first aid equipment for the place of worship.
  • The EAP includes the conditions under which an evacuation would be necessary.
  • The EAP includes the conditions under which it may be better to shelter-in-place.
  • The EAP includes a clear chain of command and designates those authorized to order an evacuation, shelter-in-place, or facility shutdown.
  • The EAP includes a procedure for assisting personnel if a community-wide evacuation is ordered.
  • Clergy, personnel, and members know not to lock fire exits or block doorways, halls, or stairways.
  • The EAP regularly tests all back-up systems and safety systems such as emergency lighting and communications systems (at a minimum, annually).
  • Safety Wardens and other personnel receive annual emergency response training.
  • Emergency evacuation exercises are conducted at a minimum, annually.
  • Systems are in place to notify, evacuate and account for occupants during off-hours.