What procedure must be followed when a fire alarm activates?

When a fire alarm activates, the appropriate action is to immediately evacuate the building and assist others in doing the same. This response prioritizes the safety of everyone in the vicinity. In a fire emergency, every second counts, and the threat of smoke, flames, or structural collapse can escalate rapidly.

Prompt evacuation helps minimize the risk of injury or death. Additionally, encouraging others to leave ensures that vulnerable individuals, such as those who may need assistance, are not left behind in a dangerous situation.

It's crucial to follow established emergency procedures, which emphasize the need to take the alarm seriously. Other responses, such as checking the alarm system or contacting the fire department before leaving, can waste valuable time and potentially increase danger. Ignoring the alarm altogether is also highly dangerous, as it could mean that a fire is present and spreading. Thus, immediate evacuation is the safest and most effective course of action when a fire alarm sounds.