Public awareness of emergency procedures and safety in public places
A significant portion of Russians lack confidence in acting properly during emergencies. A survey by the ROSIZOL association, reviewed by socialbites.ca, reveals that about one third do not know how to respond, and a further 12% have only partial knowledge. Of the remaining respondents, 42% feel confident recalling basic safety rules from school, 7% credit work-based instructions, and only 10% learned emergency conduct as adults on their own. (Source: ROSIZOL survey)
Fire safety statistics show rising incidents in public spaces. In Moscow in 2023, 569 fires occurred in public buildings, up nearly 17% from 2022. From January to April 2024, 175 fires were recorded in Moscow’s public areas, and nationwide last year tallied 4,219 cases. During January–April 2024, 1,422 fires were documented across Russia in public venues. (Source: Ministry of Emergencies statistics)
When a fire breaks out in a public place, the survey indicates that 92% of Russians would likely move toward the nearest exit, 7% would join the crowd, and 41% would cover their mouth with a handkerchief or sleeve. The data underscores the critical need for clear, practiced evacuation behavior. (Source: ROSIZOL survey)
Experts stress that respiratory protection is the cornerstone of safe behavior during a fire. Toxic combustion products can cause serious harm to the respiratory, nervous, and circulatory systems, even at low concentrations, and long-term effects may appear days later. This view is supported by Andrei Bazhin, a senior medical professional from City Clinic 23 in St. Petersburg. (Source: interview with Andrei Bazhin)
Sergei Abramov, deputy head of the fire safety supervision unit in Moscow, emphasizes the importance of avoiding attempts to fight fires without proper training. Personal safety and orderly evacuation depend on following established procedures rather than taking risks to confront flames. (Source: Sergei Abramov comments)
Gender differences in responses to fires are noted: women tend to protect others and guide people to exits, while men may rush to combat the fire without adequate skills. This behavior can be dangerous as flames spread quickly and untrained efforts are often ineffective. (Source: ROSIZOL insights)
First aid awareness remains low: only 12% know how to provide assistance, while 64% understand general guidelines. A quarter of respondents say they would not be able to help, and 3% believe they would never need such skills. (Source: ROSIZOL survey)
Navigating smoky corridors requires individuals to study evacuation plans themselves. Yet nearly half of Russians, 44%, do not pay attention to evacuation routes when visiting public buildings. Evacuation route awareness is strongest among those who have some prior exposure to unfamiliar places. (Source: ROSIZOL survey)
Evgenia Sviridova of the Modern Mineral Insulation Manufacturers Association notes that only 8% routinely review entire evacuation routes, 23% try to memorize exit locations, and 21% focus on routes only when in unfamiliar settings. These habits influence overall safety outcomes in emergencies. (Source: Evgenia Sviridova statements)
Andrey Bazhin highlights that a large share of fatalities stems from poisoning by toxic gases, accounting for a substantial portion of casualties. (Source: Andrey Bazhin remarks)
Public-building safety, including malls and cinemas, remains a priority for most survey participants. While only 4% feel current standards are truly adequate, a majority call for stronger measures. A majority also wants clearer evacuation routes, materials with fire resistance, non-toxic construction, and more protective shielding. (Source: ROSIZOL survey findings)
In summary, improving emergency readiness in public spaces hinges on better evacuation planning, stronger safety materials, and more widespread knowledge of first aid and protective practices. The survey highlights areas where public officials and facility managers can focus efforts to reduce risk and save lives. (Source: ROSIZOL survey and related expert commentary)
Note: The content reflects survey results and expert commentary aggregated from ROSIZOL and public safety officials. (Attribution: ROSIZOL; Ministry of Emergencies; City Clinic 23; related experts)