During a total evacuation fire drill, what is one of the first actions a FEDC should take?

Calling the central station to go off-line is a critical first action for a Fire Emergency Drill Conductor (FEDC) during a total evacuation fire drill. This step ensures that the alarm system is temporarily disabled to prevent it from receiving or sending signals during the drill, which is vital for maintaining safety and preventing false alarms that could cause unnecessary panic among building occupants. By taking this action first, the FEDC establishes control over the drill environment, allowing for a structured and safe practice without interference from the alarm system.

While notifying local news agencies, debriefing staff, and inspecting exit routes are important tasks in the overall process of conducting an evacuation drill, they are not prioritized at the very beginning. Instead, the priority lies in securing the environment and ensuring a clear signal is established for participants regarding the nature of the drill. This approach creates a safer and more organized atmosphere for all participants involved.