RACE is a useful acronym that helps staff to remember the proper steps in the correct order when responding to a fire emergency. This procedure can be used by an individual working alone, but is better applied by using teamwork.
- RESCUE: remove anyone in danger. If necessary, move patients behind the next set of fire doors.
- ALARM: activate the nearest fire alarm.
- CONTAIN: confine the fire by closing the surrounding windows and doors.
- EXTINGUISH or EVACUATE: if the fire is small, you are properly trained, and you can extinguish it safely, use an extinguisher. If you are not trained in the use of the extinguisher or cannot safely extinguish the fire, evacuate.