How to Escape a Sinking Ship
Somewhat tongue in cheek, but still some good advice here:-- Know your surroundings, specifically where your exits are.  The nearest exit may be behind you.-- Break the rules.  Officials may try to deter you from using passages, ladders or stairwells.  Ignore them.  If you need to kick open a door or pick a lock, do it.-- Be where the well-connected people are, and look/act the part.  Try to blend into the tribe, be a part of the group that's getting out.Obviously in a modern context, these guidelines don't apply.  Ignoring the instructions of flight attendants in a plane evacuation will get you killed.  They are trained to evac that plane in 90 seconds.  They won't be able to do it if you still have your briefcase, or haven't taken off your shoes as requested.