A hazard defense system (100) includes a plurality of defense elements (104), and a controller (112). Each defense element can be located in an area (101) and each element includes at least one sensor (205) for monitoring at least one hazard and defense factor, a transceiver (202), and a processor (203) coupled to the at least one sensor and transceiver. The system is programmed to monitor (302) at least one hazard and defense factor, inform (304) the controller of the at least one defense factor, detect (306) a hazard at one or more defense elements, inform (308) the controller of the hazard, establish (310) an exit strategy at the controller according to the hazard and at least one defense factor, inform (312) the plurality of defense elements of the exit strategy, and direct (314) one or more individuals out of the area according to the exit strategy.