The R.A.C.E. fire procedure is a four-step emergency response protocol used to guide people during a fire: Rescue, Alarm, Contain, and Extinguish/Evacuate. It is a simple memory aid taught in hospitals, schools, and workplaces to help individuals act quickly and systematically when a fire is discovered.
What Does R.A.C.E. Stand For?
R.A.C.E. is an acronym that breaks down a fire response into four clear actions. Each letter represents a critical step that should be performed in order, though some steps may happen simultaneously depending on the situation.
- R – Rescue: Remove anyone in immediate danger from the fire area, if it is safe to do so. Do not put yourself at risk.
- A – Alarm: Activate the nearest fire alarm pull station and call the emergency number (e.g., 911 or your facility’s internal emergency line).
- C – Contain: Close all doors and windows to confine the fire and prevent smoke from spreading. This helps limit the fire’s growth.
- E – Extinguish or Evacuate: If the fire is small and you have a fire extinguisher, attempt to put it out. If the fire is large or spreading, evacuate immediately and follow your building’s evacuation plan.
Background and Origin of R.A.C.E.
The R.A.C.E. acronym is widely used in healthcare facilities because hospitals have high-risk populations and complex layouts. It was developed as a training tool to help staff respond consistently during a fire emergency. While the exact origin is not well-documented, it has been a standard part of fire safety training for decades, often paired with the PASS technique for using a fire extinguisher (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep).
How to Use R.A.C.E. in a Real Fire
Imagine you are in a hospital corridor and see smoke coming from a patient room. Your immediate response should follow R.A.C.E.:
- Rescue: If the patient is in immediate danger and you can move them quickly without injury, do so. Otherwise, close the door and proceed to the next step.
- Alarm: Pull the nearest fire alarm. This alerts the entire building and triggers the fire department response. Then call the internal emergency line to give details.
- Contain: Close all doors behind you as you move. This prevents smoke from filling corridors and gives others time to evacuate.
- Extinguish/Evacuate: If the fire is smaller than a trash can, attempt to use an extinguisher. If it is larger, evacuate the area, closing doors as you go.
Remember: never re-enter a burning building. Once you are out, stay out.
R.A.C.E. vs. PASS: What’s the Difference?
R.A.C.E. is the overall response plan, while PASS is the specific method for using a fire extinguisher. PASS stands for Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side. You would use PASS during the “Extinguish” step of R.A.C.E. if you decide to fight the fire. Many training programs teach both together because they complement each other.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
One common misconception is that the “E” in R.A.C.E. always means “Evacuate.” In some versions, the “E” stands for “Extinguish” only, but most modern training includes both options: extinguish if safe, otherwise evacuate. Another mistake is skipping the “Contain” step. Closing doors is one of the most effective ways to limit fire damage and smoke spread, yet it is often forgotten in the rush to leave. Finally, people sometimes attempt to fight a fire that is too large. A fire extinguisher is only meant for small, contained fires—if the fire is spreading or the room is filling with smoke, evacuate immediately.
R.A.C.E. Fire Procedure Template
Below is a blank template you can use for training or posting in your workplace. Fill in the blanks with your facility’s specific information.
| Step | Action | Location/Details |
|---|---|---|
| Rescue | Remove people from immediate danger | _________________________ |
| Alarm | Pull alarm, call emergency number | _________________________ |
| Contain | Close doors and windows | _________________________ |
| Extinguish/Evacuate | Use extinguisher if safe, or leave | _________________________ |
Sample (fictional): For a mock drill at “Sunrise Plaza,” the Rescue step involved moving a mannequin from the conference room; Alarm was pulling the hallway pull station; Contain was closing the stairwell door; Extinguish was using a training extinguisher on a simulated fire.
Safety Considerations and When to Evacuate
Your safety is always the top priority. Only attempt to rescue someone if you are confident you can do so without endangering yourself. When using a fire extinguisher, always keep your back to an exit so you can escape if the fire grows. If the fire is larger than a small trash can, if smoke is heavy, or if you are unsure about using an extinguisher, evacuate immediately. Close all doors behind you and use stairs, not elevators, during a fire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the “E” in R.A.C.E. stand for?
The “E” can stand for either “Extinguish” or “Evacuate,” depending on the training. Most current versions use both: attempt to extinguish only if the fire is small and you have a working extinguisher; otherwise, evacuate.
Is R.A.C.E. only for hospitals?
No, R.A.C.E. is used in many settings, including schools, offices, and industrial facilities. It is especially common in healthcare because patients may need assistance, but the steps apply anywhere.
What is the first thing to do if you discover a fire?
The first step is to rescue anyone in immediate danger, if you can do so safely. Then activate the alarm. Some protocols say to call emergency services first if you are alone and there is no immediate threat—check your local policy.
How do I use a fire extinguisher correctly?
Use the PASS technique: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side. Always stand about 6-8 feet away and keep an exit behind you.
Can I use R.A.C.E. at home?
Yes, the same principles apply at home. Make sure everyone in your household knows the plan, knows where the fire extinguisher is, and practices closing doors during a fire drill.