What Does REACT Stand For In Fire Safety? [Complete Guide]

When you see a fire or smoke, it’s vital to take action based on all experts. The term they use is “REACT,” which may spark curiosity if you’re unfamiliar with it.

So, what does REACT stand for in fire safety?

It is simply a short form of (R)Removing people, (E)Ensuring the fire is confined, (A)Activating the alarm, (C)Contacting the emergency number, and (T)Trying to use the extinguisher.

Don’t panic if the above detail seems puzzling, as I’ll explain the meaning, importance, and procedure of REACT. Let’s begin!

What Is REACT and Why Is It Important?

The first thing you need to do when detecting or finding a fire or smoke coming from a particular place is R.E.A.C.T.

This acronym has a great meaning as each letter indicates a step to take in the discovery of fire. Here’s what REACT stands for in Code RED (fire) case:

So, what is REACT in case of a fire?

It is a single word that gives a guideline on what to do upon discovering a fire or smoke and saving lives. After knowing the definition, let me break down why it’s important:

• Dealing with fire or smoke gets easier without making mistakes.
• Helps all to stay calm and take necessary steps.
• Able to respond quickly to fire or smoke.
• Know the usage of emergency gear like fire alarms and extinguishers.

The Steps of REACT to Fire or Smoke!

As fire incidents or smoke can occur, it’s vital to know the procedure of REACT. Here are the sequential steps of REACT:

Step 1: Remove People from Immediate Danger

If the zone contains unbearable smoke, it’s best to evacuate people ASAP. Bear in mind that smoke can kill!

It’s because when it reaches the lungs and makes it difficult to breathe properly. That’s why remove folks the moment you find fire, even if it seems tiny. In a workplace setting, make sure to follow the Fire Emergency Evacuation Plan (FEEP) that has been put into place.

Step 2: Ensure the Doors Are Closed to Confine the Fire

Next, you’ll need to close the door which you encounter. Due to this, the fire can spread. So, be sure to close all the doors in the area perfectly.

Along with the doors, here are a few things that you’ll need to do:

• Remove the supply of oxygen to the fire.
• Do not leave things near the door to lessen the fire spread.
• Protect the exit’s route.
• Prevent drafts from spreading smoke.
• Turn off all the windows.

Step 3: Activate the Alarm

After closing the doors and other things to confine the fire or smoke, it’s time to hit the alarm system. To do that, reach the nearby room that has a fire alarm system and activate it. You can activate the alarm by pulling the lever or turning and removing the key.

If the activated alarm system seems not to be working, there are a few things you can do via fire safety features to alert everyone:

• Send signals to security and fire departments via phone or other tools.
• Activate the alert bells so that all know about fire emergencies.
• Turning on or off the air circulation system so that the smoke doesn’t spread.
• Providing elevators to a pre-planned floor.
• Freeing electromagnetic and other devices on the doors so that these create a smoke barrier.

Step 4: Call the Emergency Response Team!

Once you’ve turned on the alarm and everyone is alert, you’ll need to contact the security of the location or the emergency response team.

You can also call the emergency number based on your location and inform them about the fire incident. If needed, call the familiar fire department.

Step 5: Try to Extinguish the Fire – If You Are Trained

Lastly, try to use the extinguisher using the PASS method if you feel safe to do so. Use this if the given conditions apply:

• Activated the fire alarm system and called the emergency number.
• Have a good idea or training to identify the fire type.
• Trained to use the extinguisher based on the fire type.
• Have a few folks nearby who can assist.
• Fire is small, similar to the size of tiny garbage.

How Should You “REACT” to Fire?

1. Take out everyone from the danger zone: Remove all people from the zone that seems dangerous or contains fire.
2. Enclose the doors: While leaving each room, you’ll need to close the doors as well as windows or anything that spreads smoke.
3. Stay calm and hit the fire alarm: Break the glass and pull the fire alarm. If others hit it and you hear the alert, don’t think it’s a fire drill. Instead, take a breath and go to the exit route.
4. Contact fire security: Use a phone, telephone, app, or anything to call the emergency line.
5. Use right fire extinguisher: Based on the fire type, use the right type of extinguisher. For example, for Class A fire, use foam, water, dry chemical, or a powder extinguisher.

In Conclusion

Now that you know what REACT stands for in fire safety, it’s time to note it in your diary or phone. If any fire incident occurs, just remember the acronym REACT and perform the process properly.

I hope you find it helpful and informative to act when you find a fire or smoke. Be careful and stay healthy!