What should be done first if a fire is detected in a healthcare setting?

The most critical first step when a fire is detected in a healthcare setting is to activate the fire alarm. This action serves several important purposes. Primarily, activating the fire alarm alerts all staff, patients, and visitors about the presence of a fire, ensuring that everyone is aware of the emergency situation. This prompt notification is crucial in a healthcare environment where individuals may have limited mobility or may not be familiar with the layout of the facility.

Once the alarm is activated, it initiates the building's emergency protocols, which include the involvement of fire response teams and the initiation of evacuation procedures if necessary. While other actions such as evacuating the building or closing doors are vital components of fire safety protocols, they should be executed after the alarm is triggered. Attempting to extinguish the fire without first alerting others can lead to chaos and increased risk, as there is a potential for the fire to spread or for individuals to become trapped. Therefore, ensuring that the fire alarm is the first action taken aligns with the principle of ensuring safety for all within the premises.