Applicable for both city hotels and resorts – suitable for all levels

Introduction

Ensuring the safety of guests and staff is the highest priority for any hotel or resort. Fire emergencies can occur without warning and have the potential to cause significant harm, particularly during nighttime hours when visibility is limited and occupancy is high.

This Fire Evacuation Drill Manual is designed to provide a clear, practical guide for all hotel personnel, from management to frontline staff, on how to respond swiftly and effectively during a fire incident. It outlines the responsibilities of the fire command structure, step-by-step evacuation procedures, drill protocols, and key training requirements.

By conducting regular fire drills and adhering to the procedures outlined in this manual, hotels and resorts can:

• Familiarize staff and guests with emergency escape routes and assembly points.

• Identify and correct weaknesses in the safety system before an actual emergency occurs.

• Minimize risk to human life and property, ensuring a safe and controlled evacuation.

This manual is suitable for hotels of all sizes, including city hotels and resort properties, and can be adapted to specific operational needs. Following these guidelines not only ensures compliance with safety regulations but also reinforces a culture of preparedness, confidence, and professional responsibility among staff.

1. Objectives of the Drill

– To ensure that all staff and guests are familiar with fire escape routes and assembly points.

– To identify weaknesses in the hotel’s safety system for management.

– To prevent loss of life and property, particularly during nighttime.

2. Fire Command Structure

Position	Main Responsibilities	Responsible Personnel
Incident Commander (IC)	Makes key decisions, notifies fire department/police, controls the situation	GM / Night Manager
Deputy Commander	Acts on behalf of IC if unavailable	Security Chief
Fire Response Team	Operates fire extinguishers, cuts off power/gas, identifies fire sources	Engineering + Security
Evacuation Team	Knocks on doors, alerts guests, guides guests along escape routes	Front Office + Housekeeping
Medical & First Aid Team	Provides assistance to injured persons	HR / Nurse / Trained Staff
Assembly Area Controller	Takes headcount of guests/staff, ensures no re-entry until safe	Security / HR

3. Evacuation Plan

🔹 Steps During an Actual Incident

1. The person who discovers the fire must immediately report it.
   – Use phone or alarm system and specify: ‘Location – Floor – Area.’
2. Cut power and gas in the affected area. (Engineering Team)
3. Evacuation is ordered by the Incident Commander (IC) – announce via PA system or alarm.
4. Evacuation team begins knocking on doors – alert all guests to evacuate.
5. Use flashlights during nighttime drills or emergencies.
6. If doors are locked and smoke is present, use the back master key to check rooms.
7. Guide guests to the stairwells (escape routes) – elevators are strictly prohibited.
8. Lead guests to the Assembly Point – example: parking lot or open space at least 30 meters from the building.
9. Take headcount of guests and staff – compare with guest list and attendance list.
10. Report to the IC the number of missing or injured persons.

4. Drill Procedure

🔹 Types of Drills

– Full-Scale Drill – Conducted once per year, includes simulated fire, smoke, and full guest evacuation.

– Tabletop & Night Drill – Conducted every six months, focuses on night shifts and emergency response.

🔹 Drill Steps

1. Notify guests and staff in advance.
2. Security team checks all alarm systems.
3. Simulate a scenario, e.g., fire in kitchen on Floor 3.
4. Staff follow actual evacuation procedures.
5. Record start and end times of the drill.
6. Summarize deficiencies, e.g.:
   – Delayed communication
   – Staff unaware of escape routes
      – Guests panicking
7. Improve plan and repeat drill if necessary.

5. Annual Training

– Fire Safety Awareness – All staff must receive annual training.

– Fire Extinguisher & Protective Cover Practice – Hands-on training.

– Night Evacuation Simulation – Conducted between 22:00–01:00.

– Role Play – Includes assisting guests with disabilities, children, and elderly.

6. Supporting Materials and Required Documents

– Fire escape maps posted behind each door (Thai + English).

– Monthly inspection of emergency lighting.

– Evacuation team list posted on each floor.

– Drill record forms and post-drill reports.

– Pocket Fire Manual distributed to all new employees.

7. Lessons from the “Nirun Grand Udomsuk” Case

Actual incident: Guest fell from the 7th floor and died during nighttime fire evacuation.

Key lessons:
– Poor nighttime communication
– No designated leadership
– Confusing or blocked escape routes; dense smoke

Immediate improvements:
– Install emergency lighting and illuminated EXIT signs
– Train Night Duty staff on all-floor escape routes
– Conduct night evacuation drills at least twice per year
– Officially appoint a Night Incident Commander

8. Resort-Specific Implementation Guidelines

– Use sirens or radio alerts due to wide property areas.

– Multiple assembly points according to villa zones.

– Staff may use golf carts or guide guests on designated paths.

– Special training required for areas with lakes, slopes, or uneven terrain.

Summary

Fire evacuation drills are not just a legal requirement, but a critical measure to protect guest lives and the hotel’s reputation. Every hotel must have a designated Night Incident Commander, and all drills must be documented and verifiable.