Think about what kind of assistance you may want in order to evacuate using the stairs. Be prepared to recruit helpers and give them specific instructions. For example, if you use crutches, you may want to have someone carry the extra crutch while you grasp the handrail. You may also want to have several volunteers surround you walking at your slower pace to act as a buffer from the faster moving crowd.

Another option is to wait until the crowd has cleared. Keep in mind that a crowd of people can descend at a speed of about three or four stories each minute. You can stand in the corners of the exit stairway without seriously obstructing others while you rest or wait. By doing so, you have a fire-rated door behind you and are in an area of rescue until you feel comfortable descending the stairs.

Whether to remain in the area of rescue or use the stairs with assistance is a decision that only you can make. It is NOT recommended that you have untrained people carry you down the stairs, as this can be very dangerous for all involved.