Which option best describes the proper response to an Evacuation Order with respect to equipment?

• A. Leave equipment in place and evacuate immediately.
• B. Power down all equipment before leaving, even if that delays evacuation.
• C. Bring all equipment with you regardless of portability.
• D. Move equipment to a safe room before evacuating.

Answer: (A)

In an Evacuation Order, getting people out quickly is the top priority. Leaving equipment in place and evacuating immediately minimizes the time you spend inside danger and reduces the risk of equipment becoming a tripping hazard, a heat source, or an obstacle to the exit. Trying to power down or move gear can take precious seconds or minutes, potentially trapping someone or delaying everyone from escaping to safety. Bringing all equipment or relocating it to a different room adds unnecessary delay and can impede others’ safe exit. Once everyone is safe outside, incident responders can handle securing or isolating equipment as needed.