Final answer:
In emergency situations in tall buildings, such as a fire, it's recommended that occupants on the lower floors evacuate to safety while those on higher floors shelter in place, based on historical events and the practical limits of firefighting equipment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question revolves around the procedures that should be taken in high-rise buildings during an emergency, such as a fire. In this context, when an alarm activation occurs in buildings over 150 feet tall, it is recommended that occupants on floors one to seven evacuate to safety at street level, due to limited ladder reach from firefighting equipment and potential hazards like falling victims. This is reflected in the historical accounts of emergencies where firefighters faced challenges due to height limitations and locked stairwells. For instance, during the tragic events where ladders could not reach the higher floors, individuals were forced to jump, leading to fatalities and emphasizing the importance of proper evacuation protocols. In contrast, occupants on higher levels are often advised to stay put and shelter in place because normal relocation may pose greater risks and complications.