School Fire Evacuation Plans

Across the country, thousands of classrooms are buzzing with activity where millions of children are engaged in learning. According to published statistics, in 2023 there was an equivalent of 468,693 full-time teachers delivering lessons. Now, picture the scene where a devastating fire rips through a school building. In that moment, every second counts.

Without a clear and well-practised fire evacuation plan, chaos can ensue, and lives can be placed at risk. A fire evacuation plan is not just a procedural necessity – it’s a crucial safeguard that ensures the safety of students, staff and visitors in the event of an emergency.

One single fire in a school is one too many. Fire kills – it’s a simple as that. In 2004, there were over 33,400 fires in non-domestic buildings in England and Wales. In total, 38 people were killed and a further 1,300 injured. Not only that, but fires also cost considerable money and resources. The costs after a serious fire mean many businesses or buildings do not reopen afterwards.

Schools are unique environments where hundreds, sometimes thousands, of individuals are present at any given time. Unlike workplaces or commercial buildings, schools house children (including those with special educational needs) and staff who are responsible for ensuring their safety. Fire drills and evacuation plans help establish a sense of preparedness, making sure that if the worst happens, the response is swift, structured and effective.

The importance of a well-prepared fire evacuation plan cannot be overstated. Fires can spread unpredictably, and factors such as school layout, student age groups and accessibility needs must be considered when designing an effective evacuation procedure. Additionally, schools must comply with fire safety regulations, which dictate the necessity of such plans and regular drills.

Why Do Schools Need Fire Evacuation Plans?

Protecting lives and minimising risk

The primary purpose of a fire evacuation plan is to protect lives. Schools are often large, complex buildings with multiple classrooms, corridors, stairwells and communal spaces such as libraries, halls and sports facilities. In an emergency, confusion and panic can lead to injuries or even fatalities if there is no clear guidance on how to evacuate safely. A well-structured fire evacuation plan ensures that every student, teacher and visitor knows exactly what to do, significantly reducing the risk of harm.

Fire drills also play a crucial role in reducing panic. In the absence of a rehearsed evacuation procedure, individuals may not react appropriately, wasting valuable time or making dangerous decisions. Familiarity with evacuation routes, meeting points and emergency protocols enables a swift, organised response that can mean the difference between a safe escape and a disaster.

The Unpredictability of Fire

Fires are notoriously unpredictable. They can spread rapidly due to factors such as building materials, ventilation and the presence of flammable substances. Schools contain many potential fire hazards, including:

• Science laboratories with chemicals, gas taps and Bunsen burners.
• Kitchens with cooking equipment and electrical appliances.
• Storage areas with paper, books and other combustible materials.
• Electrical wiring and computer equipment in classrooms and offices.

A small fire can escalate within minutes, filling corridors with smoke and making escape routes impassible. A carefully planned and well-rehearsed fire evacuation procedure helps to mitigate factors and ensures that people can leave the building quickly and safely, even in challenging conditions.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Schools are legally required to have fire evacuation plans in place. Fire safety legislation mandates that educational settings must assess fire risks, implement preventative measures and establish emergency procedures to protect occupants. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, including fines, legal action or even closure of the school. Fire evacuation plans must also be regularly reviewed to meet updated safety standards and ensure compliance with government regulations.

Safeguarding Vulnerable Individuals

Unlike many workplaces, schools accommodate a diverse range of individuals, including:

• Young children who may not fully understand danger need direct supervision.
• Students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) who may require additional support during an evacuation.
• Non-teaching staff and visitors who may not be familiar with the layout of the school or the standard evacuation procedures.

A well-designed fire evacuation plan includes personalised emergency evacuation plans (PEEPs) for individuals requiring additional assistance. This ensures that no one is left behind or put at greater risk due to mobility, communication or cognitive challenges.

Building a Culture of Safety and Preparedness

Fire evacuation plans are not just about responding to emergencies. They also help instil a culture of safety within the school community. Regular fire drills teach students valuable skills such as:

• Following instructions in high-pressure situations.
• Staying calm and moving in an orderly manner.
• Being aware of emergency exits and safe zones.

A school that prioritises fire safety nurtures a sense of responsibility among students and staff. By making fire drills a routine part of school life, schools ensure that being prepared for emergencies becomes second nature.

Case Study: The Pringle School Fire, Derbyshire

It has now been over 19 years since the sixth form building of The Pringle School in Swadlincote went up in flames. The fire was so serious that the whole school had to be evacuated, with the flames reaching 20 feet into the air and a plume of black smoke billowing across the neighbouring area.

A school prank escalated into a fire that rapidly engulfed the whole of the building. The school’s 1,300 students were all evacuated with the fire evacuation plan put into action. The fire was attended by 10 appliances and over 52 firefighters and caused millions of pounds in damage to the school.

At the time, the Headteacher said, ‘Taking the roll call against a backdrop of a burning school is something I will never forget.’  Indeed, even though it’s coming up to 20 years ago, the shocking effects of such a ferocious fire are still long felt, as is the importance of having appropriate fire evacuation plans that resulted in the safe evacuation of all students, staff and visitors in the school that day.

Are School Fire Evacuation Plans a Legal Requirement?

Yes. Fire evacuation plans are a legal requirement for schools in the UK. Schools, like all non-domestic premises, must comply with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which places a duty on those responsible for the premises to ensure fire safety measures are in place. This law requires schools to conduct fire risk assessments, implement appropriate fire precautions and establish emergency evacuation procedures.

Key Legal Obligations for Schools

Fire Risk Assessment

Schools must carry out a comprehensive fire risk assessment to identify potential hazards and put measures in place to reduce the risk of fire. This assessment must be reviewed regularly and updated when necessary, such as after renovations or changes in building use.

Emergency Evacuation Plan

Schools are required to have a clearly defined emergency evacuation plan that details:

• Fire escape routes and exits.
• Assembly points.
• Responsibilities of staff during an evacuation.
• Procedures for assisting individuals with disabilities.
• Communication methods for alerting staff, students and emergency services.

Regular Fire Drills

The Education (School Premises) Regulations 2012 specify that fire drills should be conducted at least once per term to ensure staff and students are familiar with evacuation procedures. Records of these drills should be maintained for inspection by fire authorities.

Fire Safety Equipment and Signage

Schools must provide adequate fire detection and alarm systems, as well as fire extinguishers and clearly marked escape routes. Fire doors must remain unobstructed, and emergency lighting should be installed where needed.

Staff Training

All school staff must receive fire safety training, including how to respond to alarms, assist in evacuations and use fire-fighting equipment if safe to do so. Fire marshals may be appointed for added safety.

Compliance with Local Fire Authorities

Schools must work in collaboration with local fire and rescue services to ensure their fire safety measures meet legal requirements. Fire officers may carry out inspections, and failure to comply can result in fines or even school closure.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with fire safety legislation can have severe consequences, including:

Legal penalties

Schools can face fines or prosecution for failing to maintain proper fire safety measures.

Endangerment of lives

Poor evacuation procedures can lead to injuries or fatalities in the event of a fire.

Reputational damage

A school’s reputation may suffer if it is found to have inadequate fire safety measures, affecting student enrolment and parental trust.

By adhering to fire safety laws and regularly reviewing their evacuation plans, schools can ensure that they are fully prepared for emergencies while fulfilling their legal and ethical duty to protect students and staff.

What Should Be Included in a School Fire Evacuation Plan?

A well-structured school fire evacuation plan is essential to safeguard a swift, safe and organised response when there’s an emergency. No two schools in the UK are the same. This means that a school can’t simply use an off-the-shelf evacuation plan. The plan must be detailed, accessible and tailored to the specific needs of the school’s layout, student population and staffing structure. Several key components should always be included in every school evacuation plan:

Clear Evacuation Routes and Assembly Points

Every fire evacuation plan must outline designated escape routes that allow all individuals to exit the building quickly and safely. Key considerations include:

• Multiple escape routes – At least two routes should be available from every area in case one becomes blocked.
• Well-marked exits – Fire exits must be clearly signed, unobstructed and easy to open.
• Safe assembly points – A designated meeting area should be located at a safe distance from the school building where roll calls can be conducted.

Alarm and Alerting Procedures

The plan should detail how the fire alarm system works and how staff and students will be alerted to an emergency. This includes:

• Alarm activation – Identifying who can trigger the alarm and the locations of all manual call points.
• Audibility and visibility – Ensuring alarms can be heard and seen across all areas, including noisy environments such as sports halls and canteens.
• Alternative alerting methods – Provisions for students or staff with hearing impairments, such as flashing alarms or vibrating pagers.

Staff Roles and Responsibilities

Every school fire evacuation plan should specify clear roles for staff members. This will ensure that there is a coordinated response in an emergency.

• Fire Marshals – Staff trained to guide students out, check designated areas and report any missing persons.
• Roll call officers – Teachers responsible for checking attendance at the assembly points.
• First aiders – Staff trained to provide immediate medical assistance if needed.
• Communication officers – Individuals designated to contact emergency services and liaise with fire responders.

Procedures for Vulnerable Individuals

Schools must ensure that all individuals, including those with disabilities or special educational needs, can evacuate safely. This should include:

• Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) for students or staff who may need assistance.
• Buddy systems, where another student or staff member helps an individual during evacuation.
• Alternative escape routes that are wheelchair accessible or equipped with evacuation chairs.

Procedures for Different Areas of the School

Certain areas of a school pose unique risks and require specific evacuation protocols, such as:

• Science laboratories – Handling flammable chemicals and safely shutting down experiments.
• Kitchens and canteens – Managing fires caused by cooking equipment and grease build-up.
• Sports halls and playgrounds – Ensuring students in large open spaces can hear the alarm and know the evacuation procedure.
• Multi-storey buildings – Ensuring safe stairwell access and preventing congestion.

Fire Safety Equipment Locations

The plan should include maps or descriptions of where essential fire safety equipment is located, including:

• Extinguishers and fire blankets.
• Fire alarm call points.
• Emergency lighting and escape route signs.

Communication and Contact Information

A well-prepared fire evacuation plan must include:

• Emergency contact numbers, including local fire and rescue services.
• Procedures for informing parents and carers in case of an evacuation.
• Alternative arrangements if the school building cannot be re-entered, such as relocating students to a nearby facility.

Drill and Training Schedule

The plan should outline how often fire drills are conducted and how training is provided to staff and students. This ensures everyone remains familiar with the procedures and can respond effectively in a real emergency.

By ensuring that these elements are included in a school fire evacuation plan, schools can provide a structured and well-rehearsed approach to fire safety, minimising risk and protecting lives.

Special Considerations

Every school is unique with its own layout, student population and operational challenges. While general fire evacuation procedures apply to all schools, there are special considerations that must be accounted for to ensure a safe and efficient evacuation for everybody. These considerations address the needs of young children, students with disabilities, high-occupancy areas and external factors that can impact evacuation procedures.

Evacuating Young Children

Primary schools and early years settings need additional precautions because younger children may not fully understand fire risks or evacuation procedures. Key considerations include:

• Direct adult supervision – Young children should always be led by staff members to prevent confusion or delay.
• Familiarity through drills – More frequent fire drills help reinforce evacuation routines so that children can follow instructions instinctively.
• Simple, clear instructions – Teachers and support staff should use age-appropriate language and visual aids to help children understand what to do in an emergency.

Supporting Students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)

Schools must have Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) for students and staff who need additional support. Special considerations include:

• Mobility impairments – Providing accessible evacuation routes, stair lifts or evacuation chairs for wheelchair users.
• Sensory impairments – Installing flashing alarms for students who are deaf or hard of hearing and ensuring that they have designated buddies or staff support.
• Cognitive or behavioural needs – Some students, such as those with anxiety, autism or ADHD, may struggle with sudden alarms and may need personalised strategies to ensure they evacuate safely.

High-Risk Areas Within the School

Certain parts of a school pose greater fire risks or have evacuation challenges, such as:

• Science labs and technology workshops – Extra precautions for handling chemicals, gas supply shutdowns and fire-resistant storage.
• Kitchens and canteens – Risks associated with cooking equipment, oil fires and ventilation systems.
• Sports halls and outdoor fields – Sports halls and outdoor fields – Ensuring alarms can be heard and clear instructions are given to students in large open spaces.
• Multi-storey buildings – Avoiding congestion in stairwells and ensuring safe exits for students on upper floors.

Lunchtimes, Assemblies and Breaks

Obviously, fires do not always occur when students are neatly seated in classrooms. Special plans must account for times when students are in large, open areas or are moving freely around the school. For example:

• Lunchtimes – Kitchen staff and lunchtime supervisions must be trained in fire evacuation, and students must know assembly points regardless of their locations.
• Assemblies or exams – Large groups must evacuate in an orderly manner without causing panic, and invigilators must be trained in emergency procedures.
• Break times – Students may be scattered across playgrounds and corridors, so effective communication systems must be in place to ensure all students respond to an alarm.

External Threats and Weather Conditions

Sometimes, evacuation may be complicated by external factors:

• Adverse weather – Schools must plan for safe assembly points in extreme cold, heavy rain or snow and consider indoor refuge areas if necessary.
• Nearby hazards – Schools located near industrial areas, main roads or railways may need alternative routes to avoid external danger during evacuation.
• Terror threats – In some cases, schools may need a stay-put or lockdown procedure instead of immediate evacuation if there’s an external threat, such as an explosion risk, is present. Most of the time, however, schools have separate lockdown alarms and procedures as they are usually not associated with fire.

Managing Visitors and External Staff

Many schools have visitors, contractors or peripatetic teachers on-site who may not be familiar with evacuation procedures. To ensure their safety:

• Fire Procedures should be explained upon arrival – Briefing all visitors at reception and providing written guidance where possible.
• Visitor logs should be maintained – Ensuring that all non-permanent staff and guests are accounted for in an evacuation.
• Supervision should be provided – Assigning a responsible staff member to ensure that visitors and contractors follow evacuation protocols.

Post-Evacuation Procedures

Once students and staff have safely evacuated, the plan should include:

• Roll calls and headcounts – Teachers must quickly verify that all students are accounted for at assembly points.
• Contingency for prolonged evacuation – Schools should have an alternative location, such as a nearby community centre or secondary site, in case re-entry is not possible.
• Parental communication – A system should be in place to inform parents of the situation, particularly if students need to be collected from an alternative location.

Special considerations ensure that no individual is overlooked in fire evacuation planning. Schools must account for young children, students with disabilities, high-risk areas and external challenges when designing their emergency procedures. By addressing these factors in detail, schools can create a truly inclusive and effective fire evacuation plan that keeps every student, staff member and visitor safe.

When Should a Fire Evacuation Plan Be Updated?

A school’s fire evacuation plan is not a static document. It must evolve to reflect changes in the school environment, regulations and lessons learned from drills or real-life incidents. Regular reviews and updates ensure that the plan remains effective, compliant and capable of protecting students, staff and visitors.

After a Fire Drill or Real Emergency

Fire drills serve as practical tests of a school’s evacuation plan. If a drill highlights any weakness (such as blocked exits, slow evacuation times or confusion around students), these issues must be addressed promptly. Similarly, if a real fire occurs, the evacuation procedure should be reviewed based on what worked well and what needs improvement.

When the School Building or Layout Changes

Any physical change to the school premises requires a reassessment of evacuation routes and procedures. This includes:

• New buildings or extensions – Ensuring that additional classrooms, corridors, or stairwells have designated escape routes.
• Refurbishments – Changes to doors, walls or room layouts may impact the flow of evacuation.
• Temporary structures – Portable classrooms or construction zones may obstruct existing evacuation paths.

When there are Changes to Student or Staff Needs

A fire evacuation plan should reflect the needs of everyone in the school community. Updates may be needed when:

• New students or staff with mobility impairments or disabilities join the school, requiring new Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs).
• Changes in student population size affect how quickly the school can evacuate.
• New roles or responsibilities are introduced for staff members, such as fire marshals or evacuation coordinators.

When Fire Safety Regulations or Policies Change

Schools must stay compliant with national fire safety regulations, which may be updated periodically. Regularly checking for changes in fire safety laws, building codes, or local authority guidance ensures that the evacuation plan meets current legal requirements.

If Fire Safety Equipment or Alarm Systems are Upgraded

If a school installs new fire alarms, sprinklers or emergency lighting, the evacuation plan should be revised to incorporate these systems. Staff and students should also be trained on any new equipment or procedures.

After an Inspection by Fire Safety Authorities

Fire safety officers or local fire services may conduct inspections and provide recommendations for improvements. Any advice or required changes should be implemented immediately to enhance safety.

At Least Annually as Best Practice

Even if no major changes occur, it is good practice for schools to review their fire evacuation plan at least once a year. An annual review ensures that:

• Emergency contacts and staff responsibilities are up to date.
• Evacuation routes remain clear and functional.
• All students and staff are familiar with the latest procedures.

A school’s fire evacuation plan should be a living document, continuously assessed and updated to maintain its effectiveness. Whether prompted by drills, building modifications, student needs or regulatory changes, regular updates ensure that the plan remains fit for purpose. By committing to routine reviews and proactive improvements, schools can uphold the highest standards of fire safety, protecting everyone on site in the event of an emergency.

Final Thoughts

A well-prepared fire evacuation plan is more than just a regulatory requirement – it is a fundamental safeguard that protects the lives of students, staff and visitors. As highlighted throughout, fire emergencies can unfold rapidly, and without a clear, rehearsed evacuation strategy, chaos and danger can ensue.

Schools must have legally compliant plans that account for building layouts, vulnerable individuals, high-risk areas and any unexpected challenges such as break-time evacuations or extreme weather conditions. Regular updates and fire drills mean that emergency procedures not only remain effective but also become ingrained in the school community.

By prioritising fire safety and continuously refining evacuation plans, schools can encourage a culture of preparedness that ensures that every individual knows how to respond swiftly and safely when faced with an emergency.