Helping People with Special Needs

Emergency Response

People with  special needs
  1. Remain calm, people will assist you.
  2. If you don’t understand, ask people to explain the situation.
  3. Ask for assistance with your mobility device if required.
  4. If required, seek help to exit via a fire stairwell or out of the building. Do not use lifts.
  5. If you cannot exit, remain in a stairwell until the Fire and Rescue Department arrives. Ask someone to stay with you during the emergency.
  6. Be prepared to evacuate and secure the building – await further instructions.
Person providing assistance
  1. Do not put your own life at risk.
  2. Ask if people with special needs require assistance.
  3. Ask what type of help is required.
  4. Ensure you notify someone where you are, and the Floor Warden is informed.
  5. If you are unable to provide assistance, ask a Floor Warden to help.
  6. Do not attempt to carry anyone down stairs. If the person is able to move assist them down the stairwell.
  7. Remain with disabled person in stairwell if they are unable to use the stairs. Seek help.

Special needs may include people who:

  • have a visual or hearing impairment
  • have difficulty with mobility or standing
  • use walking aids or a wheelchair
  • are pregnant
  • have heart conditions
  • suffer from asthma
  • experience panic attacks
  • are claustrophobic