> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://handbook.helendelovely.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Emergency Evacuation and Fire Safety

> What to do if the building has to be evacuated.

## If the alarm sounds

1. **Stop what you're doing.** If you're in session, tell the client calmly that you need to leave the building together.
2. **Leave by the nearest marked exit.** Don't use elevators.
3. **Take clients with you.** Don't leave a client in the office. Don't go back for belongings.
4. **Go to the assembly point** and stay there until the building gives the all-clear.
5. **Account for people.** The practice manager or the most senior person present checks that every staff member and every client who was in the office is out. Tell them if you know someone was in a room.
6. **Don't re-enter** until the fire department or building management says it's safe.

## If you discover a fire

Pull the alarm, leave, and call 911 from outside. Don't try to fight a fire beyond a small one you can put out in seconds with an extinguisher without putting yourself at risk.

## Evacuation routes and assembly point

Posted by the office door and in the onboarding packet. Walk the route in your first week so you know it.

> **Not yet set.** Office-specific evacuation route, assembly point, and building emergency procedures for the new suite. Owner: Sonja, coordinated with building management. Needed before the first in-office day at the new location. (Same item as Office and facility.) — `OPEN-2026-09-03-13`

## Other emergencies

* **Earthquake:** drop, cover, hold on. Move away from windows. Evacuate after the shaking stops if the building is damaged.
* **Medical emergency:** call 911, then get help from anyone nearby. Don't move an injured person unless they're in immediate danger.
* **Severe weather or utility failure:** the practice manager will tell you whether the office is closing. Telehealth from home is usually the fallback.
* **Threat or violence:** see [Workplace violence and threats](/conduct/workplace-violence).

## Clients and evacuation

A client in the middle of a difficult session, or in crisis, may not respond well to an evacuation. Stay with them, keep your voice calm, and get them out. Once safe, decide together whether to continue by phone, reschedule, or, if they're at risk, follow the [Crisis and safety protocol](/clinical-practice/crisis-and-safety-protocol).

## Telehealth

If you're working from home during an emergency at your location, end the session, tell the client you'll be in touch through the practice, and take care of yourself. Let the front office know when you can.