According to the high-rise fire SOG, when can an elevator be used during a fire situation?

In high-rise fire situations, the standard operating guidelines (SOG) dictate specific protocols for the safe operation of elevators to ensure the safety of firefighters and occupants. Elevators should be avoided when responding to reports of fire below certain floors due to the potential for smoke and fire spread, which can compromise the elevator’s safety.

Choosing to use the elevator when a fire is reported above the sixth floor aligns with safety practices because it minimizes the risk of encountering smoke or fire on lower levels. The lower floors are typically safer areas for evacuation, while using the stairs is encouraged for the initial phases of fire fighting and occupant rescue higher up in the building.

Therefore, allowing elevator use only when the fire is reported above the sixth floor reflects a cautionary approach that prioritizes firefighter and civilian safety; using the stairs below this threshold reduces the risk of exposure to hazardous conditions.