If instructions are not forthcoming during an emergency evacuation, what should occupants do?

When occupants face a situation where instructions are not provided during an emergency evacuation, using the nearest safe stair to descend to a location 2 floors below the "alarm floor" is essential for multiple reasons. Firstly, this action can help ensure the safety of the individuals by moving them away from potential dangers associated with the immediate area where the alarm is activated. Evacuating to a lower floor can also provide a safer and more manageable environment, while higher floors may be exposed to smoke, fire, or other hazards.

Descending two floors below the alarm floor is a critical measure, particularly in high-rise buildings, where smoke tends to rise, and the air quality could be significantly compromised. By moving down, occupants create a safer distance from the hazard. Additionally, this method of evacuation maintains the flow of those evacuating down the stairwells, which is often the safest means of egress during an emergency, avoiding overcrowding and potential confusion that can occur if many individuals attempt to descend at once without clear instructions.

This strategy reflects best practices for emergency response in high-rise buildings, wherein occupants are trained to prioritize their own safety while also considering the safety of others in the building.