The Fire Alarm
You are a security officer at a busy shopping mall. The fire alarm sounds at 14:00 on a Saturday. The mall is crowded with shoppers. You are at the main entrance. Your training tells you to evacuate the building, but you see smoke coming from a shop near the entrance. People are starting to panic. Your supervisor is not in sight. You have a radio. The mall's emergency plan says that security officers should assist with evacuation and call the fire department. However, you are not sure if the alarm is a drill or real. You have not received any announcement. The smoke is increasing.
1. What should you do first, and why?
Read the worked answer
Assume it is a real emergency until confirmed otherwise. Immediately radio the control room to report the smoke and confirm the fire, and ask them to call the fire department. Start evacuating people from the immediate area, directing them to the nearest exits. Do not use elevators. Keep calm and give clear instructions. Do not attempt to fight the fire unless you are trained and it is safe to do so. Your priority is life safety. If the alarm is a drill, you will be informed later, but it is better to act.
2. How do you manage the evacuation and what should you do after?
Read the worked answer
Direct people to the nearest fire exits, ensuring they move quickly but without panic. Assist anyone who needs help, such as the elderly or disabled. Once outside, guide them to the designated assembly point and keep them clear of the building. Do not allow anyone to re-enter until the fire department declares it safe. After the evacuation, report to your supervisor and provide a detailed account of what you observed and did. Complete an incident report. If you suspect the alarm was malicious, note any suspicious behaviour.