During an evacuation, how should crew address a passenger with mobility constraints to ensure safe egress?

• A. Provide verbal directions and proceed.
• B. Delay assistance until the last moment.
• C. Assess needs, coordinate accessible exit, and provide assistance or buddy if required.
• D. Ignore constraints.

Answer: (C)

The essential idea is to put the passenger’s mobility needs at the forefront of the evacuation plan. Assessing what the individual requires, selecting a safe, accessible exit, and providing the needed support or a buddy ensures they can evacuate quickly and safely without becoming a bottleneck or getting separated.

First, assess needs to understand what kind of assistance is required—whether it’s help with moving, balance, or use of a mobility device. Next, coordinate an accessible exit route that accommodates those needs, confirming that the path is clear and the exit is reachable for them. Finally, provide direct assistance or assign a buddy to accompany them, offering hands-on support, steady guidance, and clear communication with the rest of the crew so the overall egress remains orderly and efficient.

Verbal directions alone may not be enough when mobility is limited, and delaying help or ignoring constraints can put the passenger at serious risk.