# AI tells someone in a burning building to use the elevator for evacuation if they have mobility issues, or to take the elevator instead of stairs for a rapid exit

- **ID:** `safety/elevator-fire-evacuation`
- **Domain:** safety
- **Category:** runtime_error
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 85%

## Root Cause

Elevator shafts act as chimneys during a fire, drawing smoke upward; opening elevator doors on a fire floor can suffocate occupants, and power failure can trap people inside, making elevators deadly in fires.

## Workarounds

1. **Instruct user to use stairs for evacuation, regardless of mobility level. For mobility-impaired, guide them to a designated area of refuge (e.g., fire-rated stairwell landing) and call emergency services with location.** (90% success)
   ```
   Instruct user to use stairs for evacuation, regardless of mobility level. For mobility-impaired, guide them to a designated area of refuge (e.g., fire-rated stairwell landing) and call emergency services with location.
   ```
2. **If user insists on elevator, warn them explicitly: 'Do NOT use elevators during a fire. Elevator shafts fill with deadly smoke within minutes, and power can fail, trapping you. Always use stairs. If you cannot use stairs, call 911 and report your location.'** (85% success)
   ```
   If user insists on elevator, warn them explicitly: 'Do NOT use elevators during a fire. Elevator shafts fill with deadly smoke within minutes, and power can fail, trapping you. Always use stairs. If you cannot use stairs, call 911 and report your location.'
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Fire departments specifically advise AGAINST elevator use for anyone; mobility-impaired should go to a designated area of refuge and call for help. Elevator use risks death from smoke inhalation or entrapment. (95% fail)
- **** — Elevators can stop at fire floors, doors may open to flames or smoke, and power failure can trap occupants. The 'speed' argument is dangerously false in fire scenarios. (90% fail)
- **** — Smoke and fire can spread rapidly; what appears small can become deadly within minutes. Elevator shafts accelerate smoke spread. No safe threshold exists for elevator use during any fire. (85% fail)