Agent-based Evacuation Modeling: Simulating the Los Angeles International Airport

Introduction In the aftermath of a terrorist attack on a large public venue such as an airport, a train station, or a theme park, rapid but safe evacuation is critical. For example, multiple IED explosions at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) will require evacuation of thousands of travelers and airport staff, while mitigating the risks from possible secondary explosions. In such cases, it is crucial to obtain information on the fastest evacuation routes, the time needed to evacuate people, the lag between the disaster and the arrival of a bomb squad or other emergency personnel, and what tactics and procedures authorities can use to avoid stampedes, confusion, and loss of life. By understanding possible scenarios in simulation before hand, emergency personnel can be trained so that they respond in the event of an actual evacuation.