Often overlooked yet critically important, Fire Evacuation Maps serve as vital tools in emergency preparedness, akin to the safety instructions provided by cabin crew before takeoff—a routine we might disregard until faced with a crisis. These maps typically simplified diagrams of building layouts, but they are tangible representations of life-saving strategies. Particularly crucial for transient occupants, such as hotel guests, Fire Evacuation Maps swiftly direct individuals to designated Assembly Points, where safety is prioritised over-familiarity with the building’s layout.

Emergency responders rely on these maps to locate firefighting equipment, underscoring the necessity for timely updates following structural modifications. Despite their significance, many Fire Evacuation Maps need better design, rendering them illegible to the majority. This poses a significant problem because these maps are consulted under stressful conditions.

One of the primary issues stems from using unoptimised architectural floor plans, initially intended for different purposes, such as furniture layouts. Overlaying such plans with evacuation routes can lead to confusion rather than clarity. Thin lines and cluttered layouts further exacerbate the problem, hindering swift decision-making during emergencies.

To address these shortcomings and create more effective Fire Evacuation Maps, consider the following suggestions:

· Use solid colours to conceal rooms, highlighting evacuation pathways against corridors for more precise navigation.

· Incorporate a distinct and easily recognisable ‘You Are Here’ indicator in a prominent colour and geometric shape.

· Ensure all lines are sufficiently thick for clear visibility, especially in high-stress situations.

· Clearly mark key features such as lifts, staircases, restrooms, and firefighting equipment for easy orientation.

· Streamline the map’s content to focus solely on primary and secondary evacuation routes, avoiding unnecessary clutter.

· Design symbols for amenities and safety equipment with legibility at small sizes in mind.

· Opt for typefaces with wider apex junctions, higher x-heights, and open terminals for improved readability, even at smaller sizes.

· Include designated Assembly Points outside the building to give users a clear sense of where to gather for safety.

By implementing these enhancements, Fire Evacuation Maps can fulfil their crucial role in guiding individuals to safety during emergencies with greater efficiency and clarity.