Final answer:
Joe should find an alternate evacuation route away from the smoke and flames. If no safe route is available, he should stay in a closed room and signal for rescue.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Joe encounters smoke and flames on his assigned evacuation route, proper fire safety policy dictates that he should not attempt to pass through the smoke and flames. Instead, Joe should evacuate immediately using an alternative route. In the absence of a safe and clear path, Joe should look for a room with a door to close himself off from smoke and fire, signaling for help from a window or making a phone call if possible. It's also crucial to remain calm and remember not to open windows that could draw in more oxygen to fuel the fire. Moreover, Joe should cover his mouth and nose with a cloth to filter out smoke while waiting for rescue.