What is the first step when investigating a fire alarm activation?

The first step when investigating a fire alarm activation is to confirm the cause of the alarm before taking further action. This is crucial because not all fire alarms indicate an actual fire; they can be triggered by malfunctions, accidental activations, or other non-emergency situations. By confirming the source of the alarm, you can determine the appropriate response. If the alarm is indeed a false alarm, unnecessary panic or evacuation can be avoided.

Conducting a thorough check allows responders to assess the situation effectively, ensuring that resources are utilized efficiently while maintaining safety for all occupants in the building. A thoughtful approach of confirming the cause also helps in identifying any maintenance issues with the alarm system that may need to be addressed to prevent future false alarms.