Evacuation Planning Guide for Stadiums

Section 3: Concept of Operations
Evacuation plans are intended to assist emergency responders in implementing flexible
and scalable evacuation activities (i.e., evacuation, sheltering in place, or relocation) for a
range of emergency conditions that occur in isolation or as a result of a larger, multientity
response initiative. This Concept of Operations Section includes more detailed
information for implementing an Evacuation Plan for stadiums.
3.1 Pre-Incident Planning
A number of activities should be considered prior to implementing an Evacuation Plan.
This level of planning accounts for possible hazards, risks, and threats to a stadium, as
well as potential vulnerabilities of the stadium and its population that become apparent
during an evacuation. Proper planning will identify ways to prepare for, and mitigate
problems associated with an evacuation. This planning process typically occurs during
any contingency planning cycle, and includes all pertinent local, State, and Federal
response agencies.
3.1.1 Administration
The following questions for Consideration and Supporting Actions statements are useful
in identifying laws, ordinances, and authorities that affect the evacuation process and
determine liabilities associated with an evacuation.
Jurisdiction and Liability
Considerations
• What laws and established authorities are appropriate to consider in the event of
an evacuation?
• What are the physical boundaries of authority and responsibility?
• What liabilities do the stadium owner/operator incur with regard to the occurrence
of an emergency?
• What liabilities does the stadium incur relative to the execution of an evacuation?
• How will the Evacuation Team respond to non-compliant spectators or
participants during an evacuation?
• What liability does the local jurisdiction incur with regard to the execution of an
evacuation?
Supporting Actions
• Establish clear boundaries of control for the stadium.
• Include laws, ordinances, and authorities that will affect the evacuation and
include them in the Evacuation Plan.
• Clarify any issues of contractual liability associated with the occurrence of and
response to an evacuation.
Evacuation Planning Guide for Stadiums 11