How Fire Risk Perception Impacts Evacuation Behavior: A Review of the Literature

摘要

Objective: The objective of this paper is to review the literature on the processes by which individuals respond to fires in order to identify the decision-making process between fire risk perception and evacuation behaviors. Method: According to evacuation timelines, a conceptual framework is used to identify the mechanisms through which fire cues, the characteristics of the building in which the fire occurs, and the demography, personality, fire experience and training of the individuals may be interpreted as fire risks. The fire risk perception is used as precondition impacting on decision-making and human behaviors. The relevant literature has been searched through electronic databases, journals, and consultation with key informants. Results: People respond differently to various perceived fire cues. Actions depend on the cues perceived, the interpretation of the situation, and the subsequent decisions taken. Occupants act based on these decisions, but new information can cause them to discard previous actions and begin new processes. In addition, many of the actual behaviors of occupants in fatal fires differ from occupants' response performance models. Conclusions: The fire cues perceived by people would be interpreted as safe or risk. This interpretation process is affected by several factors, including the features of the fire cues, the architecture of the building in which the fire occurs and personal characteristics. The interpretation also impacts importantly on the decision-making and responding behaviors.