An Area of Rescue Assistance is a location in a building that, due to its construction, offers protection from fire or damage and can provide temporary shelter for individuals unable to exit a building. Accepted areas of Rescue Assistance include enclosed stairwell landings, exterior rooms with windows and fire-rated doors, elevator lobbies and “fire rated” corridors.

Individuals who are mobility challenged and unable to exit a building should proceed to an Area of Rescue Assistance to await aid from emergency response personnel. These individuals are encouraged to know the Areas of Rescue Assistance in their work or classroom areas and go to these locations during an evacuation when possible. Persons occupying an Area of Rescue Assistance should call 911 and provide their exact location to the dispatcher.

Employees needing assistance during an emergency are encouraged to contact Human Resources to make the appropriate arrangements in developing an emergency evacuation plan.

Students needing assistance during an emergency are encouraged to contact the Disability Counselor to make appropriate arrangements in developing an emergency evacuation plan. In addition, they are encouraged to advise their Classroom Instructors of their plan.