In case of a fire, what should you prioritize according to FDNY guidelines?

Prioritizing personal safety, ensuring an evacuation, and alerting others is essential according to FDNY guidelines during a fire. The rationale behind this approach is rooted in the immediate danger that fire poses to life and safety. In any fire emergency, the first concern should always be to safeguard oneself and others present in the vicinity.

After ensuring safety, evacuating the area allows individuals to move to a safe location and avoid any potential smoke inhalation or burns. Alerting others maximizes their chances of escaping the fire and prevents further injury. Fire can spread rapidly, and the smoke produced can be more dangerous than the flames themselves, making quick action essential.

Choosing to attempt to extinguish the fire immediately may put individuals at greater risk, especially if they are not trained or if the fire is beyond their control. Calling emergency services should also follow personal safety, as it is critical to report the incident, but it can be done safely after ensuring one’s own safety. Gathering personal belongings, while instinctive, can delay evacuation and put individuals in unnecessary danger. Thus, the focus should remain on safety and alertness in a fire situation.