The first minute of a fire is the most critical. Decisions made in those 60 seconds determine whether people get out safely, whether the fire is contained, and how much damage your organization faces. Having a simple, trained response plan ensures that employees act quickly and correctly instead of freezing or making dangerous choices.
Second 0–10: Recognize and Confirm
In many workplaces, a fire will first be detected by:
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A smoke detector or fire alarm
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Visible smoke or flames
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Strong burning or electrical smells
In those first moments, do not ignore or assume it’s a false alarm. If the alarm sounds, treat it as real. If you see smoke or flames, shout a clear warning such as “Fire in the break room!” and pull the nearest manual alarm if available.
Second 10–30: Raise the Alarm and Begin Evacuation
Once a fire is suspected or confirmed:
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Activate the building alarm if it hasn’t triggered automatically
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Alert nearby colleagues verbally
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Start heading toward the nearest safe exit, following marked routes
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Do not use elevators—always choose stairs
If you are trained and it is safe to do so, you may quickly shut doors behind you to slow the spread of smoke and fire.
Second 30–45: Attempt to Control Only If It’s Safe
Small, early-stage fires can sometimes be controlled with a fire extinguisher—but only if:
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The fire is smaller than a trash can
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You have been trained to use an extinguisher
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You have a clear exit path behind you
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Smoke is minimal and not overwhelming
Use the PASS method (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) and abandon the attempt immediately if the fire grows, spreads, or you feel unsafe. Your life is worth more than any piece of equipment or property.
Second 45–60: Evacuate and Report
As you move toward the exit:
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Help anyone nearby who needs assistance
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Do not return for personal belongings
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Stay low if there is smoke
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Proceed directly to the designated assembly point
Once outside, fire wardens or supervisors should quickly account for employees and visitors. Share critical details with emergency responders: where the fire started, what you saw, and whether anyone may be trapped inside.
When Extra Protection Is Needed
Some workplaces—like construction sites, industrial facilities, or locations with failed fire systems—cannot rely only on alarms and employee reactions. They may be required by code or insurance to maintain on-site fire watch coverage. Trained fire watch guards patrol high-risk areas, watch for early signs of trouble, and coordinate with staff during those crucial first minutes. To understand how these services can support your emergency plan, you can go to the site of a professional fire watch provider and review their coverage options.
Those first 60 seconds are not the time to debate or hesitate. With clear training, simple steps, and strong support systems, workers can respond quickly and safely when it matters most.
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