The acronym RACE can help you respond to a fire emergency. What does this stand for?
Run, Alarm, Contain, Extinguish or Evacuate
Rescue, Alarm, Contain, Extinguish or Evacuate
Race, Emergency, Containment, Extinguish
Rescue, Alert, Call, Evacuate
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is:
Rescue, Alarm, Contain, Extinguish or Evacuate
Understanding RACE in Fire Emergency Response
The RACE acronym is a widely recognized fire safety protocol designed to help individuals respond effectively in case of a fire emergency. It stands for:
- Rescue – The first priority in a fire emergency is to assist anyone in immediate danger. This includes patients, coworkers, or individuals who may not be able to evacuate on their own. Move them to a safe location away from the fire.
- Alarm – Immediately activate the fire alarm system to notify others in the building and emergency responders. Call the fire department or follow your facility’s protocol for reporting a fire.
- Contain – If possible, close doors and windows to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading. This can help limit smoke and heat damage while allowing more time for evacuation.
- Extinguish or Evacuate – If the fire is small and manageable, use a fire extinguisher to put it out, ensuring you follow the PASS technique (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep). However, if the fire is too large or spreading rapidly, evacuate immediately following the designated escape routes.
Why is RACE Important?
- Prevents panic – Having a structured response helps individuals remain calm and act efficiently.
- Ensures safety – Prioritizing rescue and alarm ensures everyone is alerted and has a chance to escape.
- Controls fire spread – Containing the fire limits the damage and provides extra time for evacuation.
- Supports quick response – Knowing when to extinguish versus evacuate minimizes unnecessary risks.
This simple yet effective strategy saves lives and is commonly used in hospitals, workplaces, and public buildings.
Here is an instructional infographic illustrating the RACE fire emergency response. It visually explains each step—Rescue, Alarm, Contain, and Extinguish or Evacuate—to help you understand and remember the procedure effectively.