Can an alternate assembly area be outdoors?

An alternate assembly area can indeed be outdoors, making it suitable for various emergency situations, especially in scenarios where immediate evacuation is necessary. The primary function of an assembly area is to provide a safe location for occupants to gather after an evacuation, regardless of whether that area is indoors or outdoors.

Choosing an outdoor assembly area can be beneficial in situations where the building is unsafe due to fire, smoke, or other hazards. Being in an open space can help reduce exposure to danger and provide a clearer view of any potential threats. This flexibility allows emergency planners to adapt the assembly protocol to the specific needs of the situation.

While conditions such as weather can impact the safety and viability of outdoor assembly areas, it is not a requirement that they can only be used under "favorable weather conditions." Hence, it is perfectly acceptable and often advisable to designate an outdoor area as an alternate assembly point, making option A the correct choice.