Frequently Asked Questions

What programs do you use to create evacuation maps?
A product called AutoCAD© with our own FireWise Software.

Can I purchase the AutoCAD© software through InstantEvac?
No, to purchase AutoCAD© visit www.autodesk.com

Can I purchase the FireWise software through InstantEvac?
Yes, to purchase our FireWise Software and view a free demo please email us at firewise@terminalvelocityfm.com, or see the FireWise section for specific information and system requirements.

What sizes can my maps be made?
8.5"x11" or 11"x17", we can also accommodate sizes up to 36"x48"

What are the shipping costs?
Shipping and handling are free! We generally use UPS or FedEx ground, and we can accommodate overnight shipping for a small fee.

Do you offer frames?
Yes, we offer a non-glare, acrylic glass frame to accommodate 8.5"x11" or 11"x17" sized prints only.

I do not want frames, how can I mount my maps?
We will laminate your maps to protect against graffiti and vandalism. However, a non-stick tape or hanger product would be a suggestion to prevent from wall damage.

What is NFPA?
InstantEvac is a proud member of the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), which sets the standard for fire related safety codes.

What is OSHA?
OSHA is the Occupational Safety & Health Administration a part of the U.S. Department of Labor

Where can I get local help in deciding what requirements I need for my facility?
The first place to start is your local fire department's Fire Prevention Officer. This person will advise you, conduct fire drills, and inspect your facility for safety hazards.

I have floor-plans of my facility that are in a .jpeg format, what is this and can you work with it?
We work with many electronic graphic files such as those created with AutoCAD©, Paintshop©, and others. The file types we typically work with include: dwg, dwf, pdf, doc, gif, tiff, jpeg, bmp, and psp to name the most common. If you have a different format, please call or email and we will verify whether or not your format can be used.

I have only paper floor-plans, can you use them?
Yes, we will have to create your plans in AutoCAD

I do not have floor-plans, how do I begin?
Not to worry, call us and we will walk you through creating a basic layout.

What safety symbols can I use on my evacuation maps?
Any fire and life safety equipment you choose to use, and if there is not a symbol existing for a piece of equipment you need, we will create one for you. Some of the most popular symbols include: fire extinguishers, fire hoses, pull stations, first aid kits/cabinets, defibrillators, primary and secondary routes, "You are here" locations, rally points, instructions, and customized title blocks.

What is the procedure and cost to obtain a quote for service?
We do not charge for review of your drawings or to submit a quote for service. We will need to see a copy of your floor-plan(s) to submit a formal quote for services, you may send them to us via email, fax, or by mail.
Once you receive our quote and indicate to us your approval to proceed, we will draft your maps, and send them to you via email or fax so you may note the locations of your fire/life safety equipment and path of travel for evacuation. When this step has been completed and all has been approved we will ship your evacuation maps to you printed, laminated, and framed (if requested) or via email in PDF format for printing at your own facility.

What is the turn-around-time?
Depending on the number of maps, it is typically less than one week

I want you to come to my facility and create my maps at my site, can you do that?
We would be happy to visit you and create an as built of your facility. Our parent company, Terminal Velocity FM, specializes in Facilities Management including Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) and Computer Aided Faculties Management (CAFM) services, and we use the latest technology in field surveys and drafting. We can create a simple architectural plan to include walls, doors, and windows; or if you wish we could add furniture panels and fixed equipment such as copiers. If you are interested in lighting, HVAC, plumbing or civil plans we can do that too as well. Please visit www.terminalvelocityfm.com for more information on our services, samples of our work, and a partial client list.

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