Which action should be taken first when a fire breaks out?

• A. Call 911
• B. Attempt to extinguish it
• C. Evacuate the area
• D. Check for injuries

Answer: (C)

The first action to take when a fire breaks out is to evacuate the area. Ensuring the safety of all personnel is paramount in an emergency situation. Immediate evacuation helps prevent injury or loss of life as smoke inhalation or fire can escalate quickly.

Securing a safe distance from the fire allows for a proper assessment of the situation and facilitates an orderly response. Once people are safe, then other actions such as calling emergency services or attempting to extinguish the fire can be coordinated.

It's important to prioritize evacuation because without ensuring that everyone is out of harm's way, any subsequent actions could risk further danger to individuals who might still be in the vicinity of the fire. By evacuating first, you help to protect lives and prepare for a more effective response to control the situation.