Final answer:
The sign reminding occupants not to use the elevator during a fire should be placed no more than 5 feet above the floor to ensure visibility and accessibility for all.
Step-by-step explanation:
In buildings such as shelters, important safety signage is crucial during emergencies like fires. The question pertains to the height at which a sign should be placed above the elevator call button to remind occupants not to use the elevator during a fire. The correct height for placing this sign above the floor is not more than 5 feet. This height ensures that the sign is easily visible and readable to everyone, including those who are wheelchair-bound or of shorter stature.
The historical context provided, such as the tragic event where fire ladders could not reach higher than the 6th floor and people took desperate measures to escape the fire, emphasizes the importance of clear and accessible fire safety instructions. Ensuring that signs are placed at a proper height can facilitate quick and safe evacuation during a fire emergency, thus preventing tragedies similar to those described.