What is the first step to take if there is a fire in the workplace?

The first step to take in the event of a fire in the workplace is to sound the fire alarm and evacuate the area. This action serves two primary purposes: alerting everyone in the vicinity of the danger and ensuring that all individuals can leave the premises safely and in an orderly manner.

Sounding the fire alarm is critical because it instigates a pre-established emergency protocol, allowing occupants to begin evacuation before the situation escalates. Additionally, it alerts emergency services to respond quickly, which is vital for ensuring safety and mitigating damage.

While trying to extinguish the fire might be a valid option in some situations, it should only be attempted if the fire is small, manageable, and the person is trained to do so without putting themselves at risk. Calling emergency services is important, but if an alarm has not been sounded, people could remain unaware of the fire, impeding evacuation efforts and increasing risk. Therefore, sounding the alarm followed by evacuation creates a systematic and safe approach to dealing with a fire incident.