American Chemical Society (ACS) Laboratory Safety Practice Test 2025 - Free Lab Safety Practice Questions and Study Guide

The primary concern prior to extinguishing a small fire is personal safety. Ensuring your own safety, as well as the safety of others in the vicinity, is the first step in any emergency situation involving fire. Approaching a fire can be dangerous, and assessing the risks is crucial. This involves determining whether the fire is manageable or if it poses a broader danger, such as spreading or resulting in injury.

While proper equipment usage, the environmental impact, and the type of material burning are all important considerations in the context of a fire, they come into play after ensuring that the area is safe. For instance, using the appropriate fire extinguisher or knowing the potential hazards of burning materials is critical for mitigating the fire responsibly, but these actions should only be taken if it is safe to do so. Prioritizing personal safety allows individuals to make rational decisions and act effectively in a potentially hazardous situation.