Which of the following statements regarding evacuation of high-rise buildings is TRUE?

Evacuation to the roof is not considered acceptable in high-rise buildings primarily due to safety concerns associated with potential fire and rescue operations. While it may seem logical for occupants to move upward to avoid danger below, this can actually trap them in an area that is not only unsafe but also difficult for emergency responders to reach. Firefighters may need to access lower floors where conditions can be more stable to conduct rescues, while roof evacuation can complicate rescue efforts if conditions deteriorate or if the roof is not designed for occupancy.

The other statements, while they may initially appear reasonable, do not align with the best practices for high-rise emergency evacuations. Elevators pose significant risks during a fire, as they can malfunction and expose occupants to dangerous situations such as smoke and flames. Using the nearest window is typically not a safe choice for evacuation, as it can lead to personal injury or become life-threatening. Finally, the notion that all occupants must go outside immediately fails to recognize the need for a structured evacuation plan, which can often require individuals to stay put or proceed to designated safe areas instead of exiting the building hastily.