Public Emergency Exit Strategy in Houston Texas

The "Have an Exit Strategy Where You Live, Work, and Play" is a security initiative that urges Texans to always ensure they have two way exits out of any room equipped with panic hardware. Whether it’s your office’s board room, home’s kitchen, a movie theater, or any other room you may find yourself, always have an exit strategy.

This initiative springs up following two specific observations. The first reason arises after a study of the February 20, 2003, fire incident at The Station nightclub in W. Warwick, Rhode Island, that left over 100 patrons dead. The second reason was due to our findings after a 2004 random inspection of bars, nightclubs, lounges and dancehalls in eight Texas counties by the State Fire Marshal's Office. Out of the 189 establishments inspected, 182 of them violate the means of exit regulations.

The “Have an Exit Strategy” initiative is meant to educate Texans and Texas business owners on simple fire safety rules. Having clearly marked and freely accessible exits will ensure the safety of lives and properties. This campaign should also be supported by grassroots through collaborative efforts toward achieving the common goal of making our communities safer.

Do You Have an Exit Strategy?

If you run or manage an entertainment facility or a place where people often gather, it is imperative to ensure that all exits are clearly marked and accessible at all times. This precaution is important so that your employees can have an exit strategy that they understand and can execute in case of any fire outbreak.

It is also important for Texans who go out to public places to eat, drink, dance or perform, to be vigilant. Always learn the exits locations when you visit a public place so as to ensure your safety and that of your friends, family and other loved ones. Inform the management immediately or report to your local fire department in case you find an exit that is blocked, padlocked, or not clearly marked.
Of course, fire safety is everyone's responsibility.

The Way in May Not Be the Best Way Out 

Many of the 100 club-goers that died in the February 2003 fire outbreak could have come out safely if they had understand the simple safety rules that says “The way in may not be the best way out” in case of any fire emergency. When there is a fire outbreak in a crowded place, it is natural to see people running toward the entrance door. That might not be the right thing to do. In such occasions, there is the likelihood that everyone in the building may do the same thing because that is the only exit known to most of them. This may lead to some of them falling on each other and others trapped at the front door.

In the case of the fire disaster at The Station Nightclub in Rhode Island, close to two-thirds of the over 400 people at the club started toward the main entrance immediately the fire erupted. The multitude of people going toward the entrance at the same time created a commotion. Some of the clubbers fell, making others to fall, and within a few seconds the front door has been blocked by trapped people. If some of them had taken a few moments to look around for where other exits were located, the casualty could have been minimal. Always remember, the way in may not the best way out!

Spread the Word, Save a Life

It is important that you spread this message to prevent more people from falling victim of avoidable fire-related fatalities. The “Have an Exit Strategy” message must reach everyone, including facility owners and managers, as well as club goers.

Have an Exit Strategy Partners 

We understand that a public service campaign such as “Have an Exit Strategy” hardly has the funding, manpower, or resources needed to achieve set objectives. Therefore, we would like to appreciate contributions of individuals, organizations, and companies who gave their time and money to support this campaign. The following are well appreciated for their help, guidance and inspiration:

Texas Fire Chiefs Association
State Firemen's and Fire Marshals' Association
Texas State Association of Fire Fighters
The Lower Colorado River Authority
The University of Texas at Austin
Texas State Association of Fire and emergency Districts (SAFE-D)

Contact us today to learn more about the Have an Exit Strategy initiative.

Company: Okey DoKey Locksmith
Phone: (832)408-0006
Email: info@okeydokeylocksmith.com
Website: http://www.okeydokeylocksmith.com/