What you need for an evacuation drill

An evacuation drill needs more than an alarm and a clear exit. You will need printed maps and attendance lists, materials for observers, communication tools, visible safety equipment, and clear signs for the assembly point. Plan quantities around the number of participants, staff members, observers, and building zones. The list below covers the supplies to prepare, buy, or bring so registration, evacuation, observation, and reporting can happen without delays.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Documentation

Evacuation mapsqty 8
Attendance listsqty 8
Observation formsqty 10
Evacuation instructionsqty 10
Pensqty 15
Clipboardsqty 8
Notepadsqty 8

Communication

Walkie-talkiesqty 4
Megaphonesqty 2
Mobile phonesqty 4

Safety

Safety vestsqty 10
Flashlightsqty 6
First aid kit

Marking

Assembly point signsqty 2
Directional signsqty 12
Warning tapeqty 2
Conesqty 12
Route arrowsqty 20

Equipment

Stopwatchesqty 4
Digital camera
AA batteriesqty 12
AAA batteriesqty 12

Furniture

Foldable tablesqty 2
Chairsqty 4

Cleaning

Waste binsqty 2
Trash bagsqty 10
Paper towelsqty 2

Tips

Prepare one evacuation map and one set of instructions for each relevant floor or zone, then keep spare copies at the assembly point. Print attendance lists for every group and bring extra blank sheets for late changes.
Give each observer a clipboard, observation form, pen, and notepad. Add one stopwatch per observer if you need to compare evacuation times between zones.
Use at least one working communication device for each team leader or key coordination point. Test walkie-talkies and megaphones before the drill, and check mobile phones as a backup.
Mark the assembly point with a visible sign and use directional signs, arrows, cones, or warning tape where routes could be unclear. Put the signs out before the alarm rather than during the evacuation.
Check batteries for every flashlight and other battery-powered equipment at least one day beforehand. Keep the first aid kit, safety vests, and spare batteries together so they can be reached immediately.

Frequently asked questions

What supplies do I need for an evacuation drill?: Plan for evacuation maps, instructions, attendance lists, observation forms, pens, clipboards, communication devices, safety vests, flashlights, a first aid kit, signs, cones, timing tools, and spare batteries. Add tables, chairs, and cleanup supplies if the assembly point requires them.
How many evacuation maps should I print?: Print at least one map for every relevant floor or building zone, plus copies for team leaders and the assembly point. Keep several spare copies available in case the participant list or routes change before the drill.
What should observers bring to an evacuation drill?: Each observer should have one clipboard, one observation form, one pen, and a notepad. Provide one stopwatch per observer when you need timed observations, and give them a safety vest so participants can identify them.
When should I prepare the evacuation drill equipment?: Prepare documents and assemble the equipment at least one day before the drill. Test the alarm, communication devices, flashlights, and batteries beforehand, then place signs and assembly-point materials before participants are notified to evacuate.

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