What is the recommended minimum distance to maintain from the fire floor during evacuation?

The recommended minimum distance to maintain from the fire floor during evacuation is five floors. This guideline is based on ensuring the safety of evacuees by minimizing exposure to smoke, heat, and potential fire spread. In high-rise buildings, fires can produce substantial heat and smoke that can travel upwards, affecting floors above the fire. By maintaining a distance of five floors, evacuees are significantly less likely to be impacted by these hazards.

Additionally, this distance allows for a safer evacuation route, as it provides enough buffer space for emergency responders to operate on the fire floor without endangering those evacuating. Firefighters and emergency personnel often operate within designated perimeters, and keeping evacuees at a safe distance helps maintain clear access for emergency services while enhancing the safety of individuals exiting the building.

This protocol showcases a standard practice in fire safety and emergency management, emphasizing the importance of distance in mitigating risk during an evacuation scenario.