Proper emergency signage helps everyone in the building find a safe path to the nearest exit or shelter area. In some cases, zoning codes may require the signs to be illuminated and have a battery backup to ensure continuous operation during a power outage. Check with your fire department if you are unsure of local regulations.

Check to see if you are following these practices:

• Fire doors are inspected annually to ensure that they are in place and in good working condition.
• Doors, passageways, or stairways that do not lead to an exit or shelter are posted with signs reading “Not an Exit” or a similar message.
• The routes to shelters are appropriately marked.
• Exit signs are self-luminous or illuminated at all times.
• Exit and shelter signs use distinctive colours to be easily noticed by everyone, including those with colour blindness.
• Where exit signs are required, their red or green lettering is at least 15 centimeters (6 inches) high.
• All exits are clearly visible and the route to them is indicated so the direction of escape can be easily determined.
• The address of your property can be seen clearly from the street. Address numbers should be in sharp contrast to their background. This helps first responders find your facility quickly.
• There is signage on your facility’s exterior, pointing the way to emergency shelters.
• External assembly areas are well marked.
• There are signs showing first responders where to park and the way to building entrances.
• All exit doors are equipped with a push bar requiring no more than 2.5 kilograms (5 pounds) of pressure to operate.
• If an exit door has a key lock, it is kept unlocked during business hours.
• Emergency lights and exit sign circuit breakers are properly labelled.
• Gas mains are marked to show the direction in which shutoff valves should be turned and where to find any necessary tools.
• Emergency lighting works. Lighting should be checked monthly to ensure that it is working properly.