In the event of a small fire, what should you do first?

In the event of a small fire, the first action you should take is to attempt to extinguish it if it is safe to do so. This is based on the understanding that small fires can often be contained or eliminated before they escalate into larger, more dangerous situations. If the fire is manageable and you have the appropriate firefighting equipment available, such as a fire extinguisher, quick action can prevent injury and property damage.

However, safety is paramount; if there is any doubt about the ability to control the fire, or if the fire is endangering you, the priority should shift to evacuating the area. Recognizing when a fire is too dangerous to tackle on your own is crucial, and in such cases, contacting emergency services would be the next step.

Ignoring a small fire presents significant risks, as even seemingly manageable fires can grow rapidly. Therefore, the correct response is to take action to extinguish it while ensuring personal safety.