American Chemical Society (ACS) Laboratory Safety Practice Test

Which of the following statements is true regarding small fires?

1. They should never be attempted to be extinguished

2. They are always trivial and require no action

3. They can be put out if it is deemed important

4. They always require the fire department to be called

The correct answer is: They can be put out if it is deemed important

The correct statement regarding small fires is that they can be put out if it is deemed important. This means that in certain situations, particularly when safe to do so and when the fire is manageable, individuals may attempt to extinguish the fire using appropriate fire suppression methods, such as a fire extinguisher or other means. It's essential to assess the situation carefully before taking action, considering factors such as the fire's size, location, and the potential for it to spread. If the small fire poses a risk or is not easily controlled, then evacuating the area and contacting the fire department is the most prudent course of action. This approach emphasizes the importance of situational awareness and personal safety as well as the use of available resources to manage a fire before it escalates. The other statements suggest a lack of flexibility in responding to small fires. For instance, the idea that small fires should never be attempted to be extinguished is overly cautious and does not consider situations where individuals are trained and equipped to handle minor fires. Similarly, labeling all small fires as trivial undermines the importance of assessing the situation, as even small fires can turn serious if not addressed properly. Lastly, indicating that every small fire always requires the fire department to be called is impr