Emergency evacuation support

If you have access needs that may affect how you evacuate during an emergency, planning ahead can help you feel more confident and prepared. Here you’ll find guidance and support to help you prepare and navigate campus safely.

Assistance during evacuations

If you have access needs that may affect how you evacuate during an emergency, it’s important to have a personal emergency evacuation plan in place.

Each AUT building has designated safety zones where you can wait for Fire and Emergency New Zealand to assist you if needed. It’s helpful to know where these are and how to get to them. You can use MazeMap in the AUT App to plan ahead.

You might also choose to

• Talk with your lecturers about what works best for you
• Connect with classmates you feel comfortable with for support
• Reach out to Disability Support Services who can help you put a plan in place

For more information, visit the AUT safety, security and emergencies page.

You can also view the AUT Emergency Procedures Poster for guidance on what to do in different situations.

Create your personal self-evacuation plan

Planning ahead can help you feel more confident in an emergency. Think about the buildings you use more often and the routes available to you:

• Get to know the layout of your main buildings
• Identify nearby exits, stairs and alternative routes

Evacuating safely and designated safe areas

• During an evacuation, think about what works best for you:
• If you can use the stairs safely, follow the usual evacuation route
• If stairs aren’t suitable, consider what alternative routes or support may be needed
• Avoid being carried down the stairs, as this can be unsafe for you and others
• If you’re unsure where to go, let the floor or building warden know (wearing either a green or red high visibility vest) - they will guide you and make sure emergency services are aware of you and your location
• Each AUT building has designated safe areas such as smoke- stop lobbies or widened stairwell landings, this is where you can wait for emergency services to arrive if you cannot use the stairs. These are designated safe areas where you can wait for assistance from emergency services if you cannot use the stairs during an emergency.
• Use MazeMap in the AUT App to find safe areas in the buildings you use