EVACUATION SLIDE Meaning and
Definition
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An evacuation slide refers to a safety device used in aircraft and other transportation methods to swiftly evacuate passengers in case of an emergency. It is a collapsible slide made typically of strong, fire-resistant materials, such as reinforced fabric or inflatable rubber, that is stored inside the aircraft when not in use. In the event of an emergency situation, such as an uncontrolled fire or a crash landing, the evacuation slide is deployed either manually by the crew or automatically through an activation system.
When the evacuation slide is deployed, it rapidly inflates using gas stored in onboard cylinders, providing a safe and expedited exit route for passengers and crew to evacuate the aircraft. The slide is designed to be sturdy and flame-resistant, allowing passengers to slide down from the aircraft's exit doors to the ground or an inflatable raft. Consequently, it helps to minimize injuries and facilitates rapid evacuation during potentially life-threatening situations.
The evacuation slide often includes multiple segments or lanes to accommodate the simultaneous evacuation of multiple passengers, ensuring an efficient and orderly process. Some advanced evacuation slides incorporate additional safety features, such as built-in lighting, ropes or handles to assist individuals with mobility impairments, and even slides specifically intended to detach and function as life rafts in water emergencies. These emergency devices are meticulously inspected and maintained by trained personnel to ensure their full functionality and reliability in critical situations.
Etymology of EVACUATION SLIDE
The word "evacuation slide" is a compound term composed of two words: "evacuation" and "slide".
1. "Evacuation" has its roots in the Latin word "evacuare", which means "to empty" or "to make empty". The word was later adopted into Old French as "evacuer" and then into Middle English as "evacuen" in the 16th century. It refers to the act of removing or relocating people from a dangerous or emergency situation.
2. "Slide" originated from the Old English word "slidan", which meant "to move easily in a smooth and continuous manner". It has Germanic origins and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages. In the context of an evacuation slide, it refers to a smooth and inclined surface that enables people to quickly and safely move down from an elevated location during an emergency.
