What role does proper lighting play in fire safety?

Proper lighting plays a critical role in fire safety, particularly in helping occupants navigate safely to exits during an emergency. During such an event, visibility can be compromised due to smoke or darkness, making it challenging for individuals to locate exits. Well-placed, adequate lighting enhances visibility, enabling people to move quickly and safely towards the designated escape routes. This timely evacuation significantly reduces the risk of injury or panic in a potentially hazardous situation, ensuring that everyone can exit the building efficiently.

While proper lighting might also have benefits in terms of enhancing supervision of activities or emphasizing decorative elements, such benefits are secondary to its primary function during emergencies. The notion that it serves no immediate benefit during an emergency is inaccurate, as visibility is crucial to safe evacuation. Thus, the important function of lighting in enhancing safety and guiding individuals to exits underscores its essential role in fire safety protocols.