Detecting a fire and the first seconds: assess and decide

The first seconds after you notice signs of fire largely decide the outcome. Signs: a smell of burning or scorched insulation, smoke, characteristic crackling, rising temperature, a smoke detector going off, flickers of flame. Do not ignore signals or find "convenient" explanations — hesitating out of doubt has cost many their lives. If an alarm sounds, treat it as a real threat until you are sure otherwise.

On discovering a fire, decide quickly using the sequence: warn others — evacuate — call the fire service — extinguish if possible. Priorities: life and safety first (yours and others'), property second. Before acting, assess the situation: the size of the seat of fire, whether there is smoke and how fast it spreads, whether exit routes are clear, whether anyone nearby needs help (children, the elderly, people with limited mobility).

A simple "fight or flee" rule: trying to extinguish it yourself makes sense only if the fire is at its very start (a bin, a tablecloth, a small area caught fire), you have a suitable extinguisher, there is a clear escape route behind you, and you are sure you will not cut yourself off from the exit. In all other cases — especially if the fire has spread to furniture, walls, ceiling, if there is much smoke, or electrics/gas are burning — do not fight it: evacuate immediately and close the door behind you. Never risk your life for belongings.