When should the emergency escape plan be established?

Establishing an emergency escape plan immediately after completing the inner/outer survey is a crucial step in effectively managing a rescue scenario. During the survey, responders assess the conditions of the scene, including hazards and potential escape routes available. This information is vital for developing a realistic and effective escape plan that ensures the safety of both the victims and the rescuers.

Creating the escape plan at this point allows responders to utilize the data gathered during the survey to make informed decisions about the safest and quickest ways to evacuate individuals in case of an unexpected situation, such as vehicle instability, fire, or other hazardous developments. Having this plan in place right after the survey enhances situational awareness and preparedness, which is essential for a successful operation.

Other timing options, such as before arriving at the scene or during a post-incident review, do not allow for the level of situational specificity that is needed to tailor an effective escape route. Additionally, deciding on an escape plan after a safety check may be too late, as conditions might change rapidly once rescuers begin their work on-site.