Emergencies don’t come with a warning. Whether it’s a fire, gas leak, or another urgent situation, having a solid evacuation plan can mean the difference between a safe, orderly exit and a chaotic, dangerous one. For housing organizations, evacuation planning isn’t just about checking a compliance box—it’s about protecting the lives of residents and staff, especially those who may need extra assistance.
What you'll learn
- How to create and post effective emergency evacuation routes
- Best practices for identifying and assisting residents who may need help evacuating
- The importance of fire protection systems and regular maintenance
- Steps to coordinate with local emergency services
- Tips for organizing drills, tracking evacuations, and planning temporary housing
Why this matters
During an emergency, every second counts. A well-designed evacuation plan saves lives, reduces confusion, and ensures everyone—residents, staff, and first responders—knows what to do. Whether you're updating an existing plan or starting from scratch, the strategies in this guide will help you strengthen your organization’s emergency response and build community trust.
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This article is for general information only. HAI Group® makes no representation or warranty about the accuracy or applicability of this information for any particular use or circumstance. Your use of this information is at your own discretion and risk. HAI Group® and any author or contributor identified herein assume no responsibility for your use of this information. You should consult with your attorney or subject matter advisor before adopting any risk management strategy or policy.
HAI Group® is a marketing name used to refer to insurers, a producer, and related service providers affiliated through a common mission, management, and governance. Property-casualty insurance and related services are written or provided by Housing Authority Property Insurance, A Mutual Company; Housing Enterprise Insurance Company, Inc.; Housing Specialty Insurance Company, Inc.; Housing Investment Group, Inc.; and Housing Insurance Services (DBA Housing Insurance Agency Services in NY and MI).
