How to safely evacuate buildings

There’s a reason why the government and private companies mandate regular fire drills. This is because knowing how to safely and effectively evacuate buildings is necessary for saving lives. According to Martin Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, fire marshals estimate that hundreds of people could die during an emergency if people take too long when evacuating a building.

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Regardless if you’re an employee that spent years working in a building or a guest, it’s important to know where the fire exits are located. Buildings often have multiple fire exits so be sure to take note of each. During an emergency like an earthquake, some exits could be blocked by debris.

If you are always wearing specific footwear at work that makes it difficult to move swiftly like platform shoes or heels, always have a pair of comfortable footwear with you so you can switch when an emergency takes place. And if you have a lot of belongings with you that could slow you or others down, leave them at a safe location like an office drawer.

In the event of an emergency and everyone is requested to evacuate, do not panic. Find the exit nearest you and make your way down in a brisk manner. Do not push or shove people along the way to get ahead.

Once you reach the outside of the building, get some distance between you and the building. Capt. Martin Sanders states that you need to give room for others exiting the building and should always treat the whole of the building as a non-safe zone.

Captain Martin Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, had been deeply involved in biosafety and biosecurity issues both domestic and international. In addition, he has been a member of many research teams and has contributed to several published studies on epidemiology. Visit this page for similar reads.

Disclaimer: This site was prepared by Martin Sanders in his spersonal capacity. The opinions expressed are the author's own and do not reflect the views of the USPHS, the Department of Health and Human Services, or the United States government.

What you should do during a biological warfare attack

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A bioterror attack employs the use of biological agents. The government explains biological agents as "organisms or toxins that can kill or incapacitate people, livestock and crops." This kind of attack has been designed to make its victims sick through germs, bacteria, and virus that spread infection and disease. Since the dispersal of a biochemical agent can be sudden or stealthy, you’ll need to understand the signs of an attack and react in an informed manner, to prevent harm to yourself and your loved ones, says public health professional Martin Sanders.

In case you were given adequate time to prepare for the attack, you should prepare your disaster kits and formulate a family emergency escape plan.

You should visit your doctor and check immunization records for each of your family members and get yourselves vaccinated for shots you’re missing. You should prepare your home by installing HEPA filter kits on your ventilation or furnace return ducts.

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During the attack itself, you should find information about the disease, where supply drops are being made, and where vaccinations are being given. You will need to remove yourself from any area you suspect is the attack site. You and your family members should wear face masks or at least cover your nose and mouth with three layers of clean cloth. Isolate and decontaminate yourself if you believe you've been infected. If that is the case, avoid crowds, approach emergency medical responders, and undergo quarantine. Do not infect others by sharing utensils or staying with them in close quarters.

After the attack, you will need medical checkup in order to see if you’re well, advises Martin Sanders. Should the attack be widespread, it’s possible doctors and responders in your area will be busy. You can wait and listen to any announcements about the nature of the agent and follow instructions from your local government. You can also seek information about the agents in the Center for Disease Control website. Of course, you should still actively seek the attention of medical and emergency personnel as much as possible.

Capt. Ph.D., has completed all requirements needed to obtain a certification as an Associate Safety Professional (ASP) and a Certified Safety Professional (CSP). For more insightful reads on public safety, visit this page.

Disclaimer: This site was prepared by Martin Sanders in his personal capacity. The opinions expressed are the author's own and do not reflect the views of the USPHS, the Department of Health and Human Services, or the United States government.