In the event of a small fire, what is the first action a worker should take?

When encountering a small fire, the most appropriate first action is to attempt to extinguish it with a fire extinguisher. The rationale behind this action is grounded in the principle of early intervention. Small fires can often be contained and extinguished effectively if addressed promptly with the correct equipment. Fire extinguishers are specifically designed to tackle various types of fires, and if a worker has been trained properly in their use, they could prevent the fire from escalating and causing more significant damage or danger.

It's important to note that when using a fire extinguisher, the worker must ensure they have a clear evacuation route and that it is safe to approach the fire. If the fire is beyond their control or if they feel unsafe, further actions such as evacuation or calling for help may be necessary.

Calling emergency services immediately is advisable in cases where the fire cannot be safely managed or extinguished. However, once a small fire is detected, there may still be a window where immediate action can prevent a larger incident.

Spreading the fire with a torch would be counterproductive and dangerous. This option clearly jeopardizes safety and contradicts the established procedures for fire safety.

Evacuating the area is a prudent action as a follow-up if the fire cannot be