What is the purpose of designated assembly points?

Designated assembly points are critical to ensuring the safety of occupants during an emergency evacuation. These points are identified locations where individuals can safely gather after leaving the building, allowing for an orderly evacuation process. This helps to ensure that everyone is accounted for and that emergency personnel can quickly assess if any occupants may still be inside the facility. By having a specific, predetermined location for individuals to congregate, it minimizes confusion and potential hazards, thereby enhancing overall safety during emergencies.

The other options focus on aspects that are not primary functions of assembly points. While communication, refreshments, and waiting areas for emergency services may be considerations in an overall emergency management plan, they do not address the fundamental purpose of designated assembly points which is to provide a safe gathering area away from danger.