In an emergency, every second counts. A well-prepared fire drill can save lives in a real-life situation. It not only imparts theoretical knowledge, but also provides realistic training on how to behave in the event of a fire.
Employees learn how to use escape routes correctly, what to do when the alarm sounds and how to act calmly and effectively in exceptional situations. Regular drills thus make an indispensable contribution to the safety of employees, customers, patients or pupils.
Furthermore, they are not a voluntary measure, but are required by law: According to Section 10 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, Section 4 of the Workplace Ordinance and the Technical Rules for Workplaces (ASR A2.3), companies must take organisational measures for firefighting and evacuation – and also implement these measures regularly in practice. In many cases, at least one drill per year is required.
What is a fire drill?
A fire drill is a planned and executed simulation of a fire in a building or on premises. The aim is to test the existing safety structures, practise evacuation and improve the behaviour of everyone involved in an emergency.
Contents of a fire drill
The fire drill usually begins with an alarm – either via a fire alarm system or manually triggered. The building is then evacuated quickly but in an orderly manner. Participants proceed to a predefined assembly point, while evacuation assistants provide support and ensure that no one is left behind.
The drill is supervised by fire safety officers or external specialists who document response times and any anomalies. The results are evaluated in a debriefing to identify weaknesses and optimise processes.
Fire drill procedure
Planning begins with the definition of a realistic scenario based on the risk assessment – for example, a fire in the warehouse or a smoke-filled escape staircase. Evacuation assistants, safety officers and, if necessary, the fire brigade are informed in advance, and escape and rescue plans are checked.
On the day of the drill, the alarm is triggered and the evacuation is carried out. Observers record behaviour and procedures, and the results are then discussed together. Employees can provide feedback, which is used to optimise safety measures.
It is particularly useful to combine a fire drill with a practical fire extinguishing exercise – because theory alone is not enough to act correctly in an emergency.
Practical fire extinguishing exercise: Act actively instead of hesitating
In an emergency, your first impulse is crucial: act or hesitate? Anyone who has already used a fire extinguisher in a drill will not hesitate in an emergency. It is therefore highly recommended to conduct a practical fire extinguishing drill in addition to an evacuation drill. Employees learn how to use various extinguishing agents – under safe conditions, supervised by experienced instructors.
Such drills strengthen safety awareness and give participants the confidence they need to actively help in the event of a fire – without putting themselves at risk.
Training and education for sustainable safety
A one-off exercise is not enough to ensure long-term preparedness. Annual fire safety training for all employees is therefore also required by law. It provides knowledge about the causes of fires, correct behaviour in an emergency, escape and rescue routes, and the use of technical equipment.
In addition, training for fire safety and evacuation assistants is mandatory. In an emergency, these assistants take on specific tasks, such as evacuating individual areas of the building or looking after people with special needs. CWS Fire Safety offers comprehensive training packages for this purpose – including theory, practice and official certificates.
Who is responsible for fire drills?
The legal responsibility for conducting a fire drill always lies with the employer. In practice, it is usually organised and carried out by the fire safety officer, safety specialists, the fire brigade or external service providers.
External experts not only contribute technical expertise to the drill, but also modern training equipment and objective observation – a real added value for any organisation.
Practice creates safety
A professionally planned and conducted fire drill is much more than a compulsory event. It creates safety, raises awareness among employees and contributes to the continuous improvement of emergency organisation. Those who also rely on fire extinguishing training and regular instruction ensure that everyone knows what to do in an emergency.
Frequently asked questions
How often is a fire drill required?
At least once a year in most establishments – more frequently depending on the industry.
Does the exercise have to be announced?
Not necessarily. Unannounced exercises are more realistic, but should be coordinated with sensitive groups (e.g. nursing homes, schools).
Can real smoke be used during the exercise?
Yes – with special fog machines and only in consultation with the authorities. It significantly increases the realism.
How much does a professional fire drill cost?
The costs depend on the amount of work involved.
Is participation compulsory?
Yes. All employees must be trained in accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Act and involved in emergency measures.