Evacuation of physically impaired
In cases of emergencies, those individuals with physical impairments, who are not on the ground floor, may need assistance with building evacuation.
Ambulatory individuals are those with disabilities that may impair rapid building evacuation. Examples include those who are blind, deaf or whose mobility is restricted by the use of walkers or crutches. Assistance to ambulatory individuals can be provided by guiding them to a stairwell, waiting until a clear passage is established and helping them down the stairs to the designated meeting area.
Non-ambulatory individuals are those with disabilities that require the use of wheelchairs. To assist these individuals, proceed as follows:
- Call MSU Police at 911. If there is no answer, or if the line is busy, call 2222. Provide the dispatcher with as much information as possible, most importantly, the location of the individual.
- Move the impaired individual into the stairwell and await assistance if there is no immediate danger within the vicinity of the stairs. Send a runner to the building accountability area and report where the evacuation assistance is necessary.
- If the hazard becomes life threatening, move the individual into a room and close the door. If evacuation is deemed necessary, proceed according to the established plan. Immediately inform emergency personnel of the location of the non-ambulatory individuals.
- Signal the emergency responders whenever possible by hanging an article of clothing from a window to attract attention and gain assistance.