In care homes, every second counts during a fire emergency—but when residents face physical and cognitive challenges, evacuation becomes far more complex than simply following arrows to the nearest exit.

Mobility impairments, dementia, and other cognitive conditions can make it difficult—or even impossible—for residents to respond quickly or understand what’s happening. That’s why fire safety planning in care homes must go well beyond standard procedures and into the realm of truly person-centred care.

The Challenge: More Than Just Slow Movement

Residents with reduced mobility may use walking aids, wheelchairs, or require assistance from staff. In a fire situation, tight corridors, smoke, or blocked paths can turn those aids into obstacles. For those with dementia or cognitive decline, the blare of an alarm may cause confusion, fear, or resistance to being moved—especially by unfamiliar staff.

This creates a serious challenge: how do you protect those who may not be able to protect themselves?

1. Create Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)

A one-size-fits-all fire procedure won’t work in a care home. Every resident should have a PEEP—a plan tailored to their specific mobility, cognitive, and medical needs. These plans should be reviewed regularly and updated if a resident’s condition changes.

PEEPs should include:

• Level of mobility and whether assistance is needed

• Preferred evacuation method (e.g., wheelchair, evacuation chair)

• Behavioural considerations (e.g., likely confusion or anxiety)

• Best staff members to assist based on familiarity

2. Train Staff for Realistic Scenarios

It’s not enough to run generic fire drills. Staff should be trained in realistic evacuation scenarios, including ones involving non-compliant or panicked residents. Techniques for calming anxious individuals, using evacuation aids safely, and working in low-visibility or high-pressure situations should all be covered.

Training should also include night-shift staff—when fewer people are available and response time is even more critical.

3. Invest in Specialist Equipment

Standard evacuation chairs and slide sheets are essential, but care homes with higher-needs residents should consider additional equipment like:

• Evacuation sleds for narrow stairwells

• Smoke hoods to protect vulnerable residents from inhalation

• Bed evacuation systems for residents who cannot be easily moved

The right equipment, positioned strategically throughout the home, can save lives.

4. Design the Environment for Safe Movement

Fire safety starts with layout. Corridors should be wide and clear, doorways should accommodate wheelchairs and beds, and signage should be simple and visual, particularly for residents with dementia. Visual cues (like coloured lines on the floor or illuminated signs) can help guide those who might otherwise panic or freeze.

5. Practice with compassion

Perhaps most importantly, evacuation planning must be compassionate. Residents are not just names on a list—they are people with fears, needs, and dignity. Drill procedures should aim not just to get people out quickly, but to keep them calm and safe throughout.

Conclusion

Fire safety in care homes isn’t just about alarms and exits—it’s about understanding your residents and preparing for their specific needs. By putting tailored plans, realistic training, and thoughtful design at the heart of your fire strategy, you’re not just complying with regulations—you’re saving lives.