Special Needs Groups

Special arrangements have been established to manage an emergency event in the Brisbane CBD. The plan details the arrangements in place to ensure police and emergency services can manage the high concentration of workers, visitors and residents in the Brisbane CBD area during an emergency. It may include an alert notification system for building managers and identified Emergency Support Sites.

A number of natural and technological emergencies could result in an evacuation being ordered by the Queensland Police Service. These could include incidents such as:

• hazardous material incidents
• power or water failure
• rail or major transport disruptions
• building collapse; and
• other emergencies.

Not every emergency will involve an evacuation; indeed the safest place to be in some emergencies is inside a building.

What can you do to prepare for an emergency?

It is unlikely that the building you work or live in will need to be evacuated. However, you should follow these simple steps to prepare for any emergency:

• get to know your emergency evacuation plan - at work it should be on exit doors and near the lifts - if it is not there, ask someone such as a floor warden.
• know the location of your building's evacuation assembly areas and Brisbane CBD Support Sites.
• let someone know if you are likely to require assistance (such as a floor warden).
• every workplace is required to have an emergency plan and most workplaces have a buddy system - does yours?; and
• have your own personal emergency plan and kit.

What do I do in an evacuation?

Because evacuations are so infrequent many people do not know what to do if they are ordered to leave their building. Do you know what to do if there is an emergency that affects you?

IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE ASK FOR IT!

• Stay calm and listen for instructions.
• Follow your normal building evacuation drill to designated assembly areas and then if directed, make your way to the nearest Safety Site. Alternatively, you could be instructed to go directly to a Safety Site.
• Follow instructions given by floor wardens and emergency services.
• Take essential medication, water, comfortable shoes, wallet, keys, mobile phone, travel pass and batteries for aids. Be prepared to wait for quite some time.

Would you require assistance in an emergency?

It is not always obvious to individuals (or others) that they need help to evacuate. Many disabilities or health problems are not obvious.

Can you get out of your building easily if it is evacuated? Remember you might not be able to use the lifts.

How would a power failure affect any aids you may have?

Can you get home if there is a transport disruption or you are unable to return to your vehicle?

Do you have a heart condition, mobility, sight or hearing impairment or other health problem? Even a sprained ankle or broken limb could make it difficult for you to leave your building quickly.

If you needed help who would you ask?