In the event of a fire alert, what does the "R" in the RACE acronym stand for?

The "R" in the RACE acronym stands for "Rescue." This emphasizes the priority of ensuring the safety of individuals in the vicinity of a fire. When a fire alert occurs, the first action is to assist anyone who may be in immediate danger, helping them evacuate to a safe location. This could involve guiding patients who are unable to move quickly, such as those confined to beds, or aiding those who may not be aware of the emergency.

The focus on "Rescue" aligns with standard emergency procedures, which advocate for preserving human life as the top priority in any disaster situation. Other components of the RACE acronym include "Alarm" (to sound the alert), "Contain" (to prevent the fire from spreading), and "Extinguish or Evacuate" (to either put out the fire or evacuate the area). Each step builds on the importance of a structured response to emergencies, with rescue actions coming first as lives are at stake.