When personnel are briefed about the incident, this should include details of the safe access and egress routes. They should also be reminded that situational awareness is essential for their safety while they focus on the rescue activity; this includes the use of identified routes. It may be beneficial to appoint a safety officer to monitor the safety of access and egress routes.
Ground conditions and current and forecast weather should be considered throughout the incident, to determine if the access and egress routes may be impacted. In reduced visibility, the use of lighting or physical barriers should be considered, especially for the egress route. Access and egress routes near water can also be affected by tides; this impact should be included when determining routes.
Access and egress routes for the hazard area should be maintained, taking into account that an alternative egress route may need to be established if the stability of the mode of transport or structure changes.
The routes need to take account of the number of emergency responders and casualties, along with equipment such as stretchers, that may need to use them. This can impact on the ability of an egress route to support the rescue, due to reduced space, increased weight and other demands on it.