As of May 2010, the Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District will begin to require Crowd Managers at all assemblies.

 

What is a Crowd Manager?

A Crowd Manager is one or more people who are assigned the responsibility of maintaining the safety of occupants during a gathering. This person is responsible for implementing the evacuation plan in the event of an emergency; panic or fire. The proper ratio is one Crowd Manager per every 250 persons.

 

What is a Crowd Manager’s responsibility?

- Make sure all EXIT doors are clearly marked and illuminated.

- Make sure EXIT doors are clear of any obstructions inside and outside; that the path is clear.

- Make sure EXIT doors are unlocked and operational.

- Be familiar with the POSTED OCCUPANT LOAD; this is the maximum number allowed.

- Clear aisles and egress paths.

- Insure the fire alarm and fire sprinkler system is functional.

- Make sure EMERGENCY LIGHTING works.

- Prevent OVERCROWDING; you might count the number of people in, and count the number of people out.

 

What is considered an Assembly?

This is a place used for gathering of 50 or more persons for deliberation, worship, entertainment, eating, drinking, amusement, awaiting transportation, etc.

 

Examples might include:

Armories, assembly halls, auditoriums, bowling lanes, club rooms, college and university classrooms, courtrooms, dance halls, drinking establishments, exhibition halls, gymnasiums, libraries, mortuary chapels, theaters, museums, passenger transportation terminals, places of worship, pool rooms, recreation piers, restaurants, skating rinks, or special amusement buildings.

 

GO TO: http://www.firemarshal.state.md.us/crowdmanager/ to become certified.