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

• The EAP has been reviewed and includes a written evacuation procedures?
• During the evacuation drill the ability to make clergy, staff, and members aware the evacuation procedures are tested.
• Safety Wardens have an opportunity to practice the skills they were trained on based their roles.
• The drill tests the effectiveness of illuminated Exit signs to indicate the way to exits and shelters.
• The drill tests the exit routes for wheelchairs or other mobility devices, which should be clearly marked.
• 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 were chosen to protect staff, clergy, and members, from additional hazards.
• Evacuation procedures, shelters, and exit routes are marked on a floor plans that are posted throughout your house 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 staff, clergy, or members with special needs or disabilities who may need help evacuating and assign one or more people, including backup personnel, to assist them during an emergency.
• The EAP has procedures for assisting visitors and staff to evacuate, particularly those who may not speak English.
• The EAP has identified key staff members to perform critical shut down operations or other duties before evacuating to a shelter or assembly area.
• The EAP includes a procedure allowing us to account for staff during an evacuation.
• The EAP has recommended types and amounts of safety and first aid equipment for your house of worship.
• Conditions under which an evacuation would be necessary.
• The EAP includes explains 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, sheltering, or facility shutdown.
• The EAP includes a procedure for assisting staff if a community-wide evacuation is ordered.
• Clergy, staff, 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.
• Safety wardens and other staff 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 your house of worship’s off-hours.