There are many synonyms for the phrase "fire escape," depending on the location or context. In a residential building, it could be referred to as an emergency staircase or emergency exit. An industrial or commercial setting might use the terms emergency egress or evacuation route. In a school or public building, it could be labeled as a fire evacuation plan or simply an escape route. Other synonyms include safety stairs, emergency ladder, and fire exit. Regardless of what it's called, the purpose of a fire escape is to provide a safe exit route in case of an emergency, and it's important to be familiar with the escape plan of any location you are in.