In the event of a fire or smoke condition, what should the FLS Director ensure is done immediately?

In the scenario of a fire or smoke condition, the first and foremost action that the Fire and Life Safety Director (FLS Director) should take is to ensure that 911 is called immediately. This step is critical because it not only brings professional firefighting assistance to the scene but also ensures that the local emergency services are aware of the situation. Promptly notifying emergency responders is vital, as they need time to arrive and prepare to handle the fire effectively, potentially saving lives and reducing damage.

Activating the building's sprinkler system, while important during an actual fire, typically happens after emergency services are notified, as the response from professionals is essential for managing the situation comprehensively. Evacuating all occupants is a significant action but should be coordinated simultaneously with calling emergency services. Disabling the fire alarms is counterproductive, as these alarms are designed to alert occupants and fire services, and disabling them could lead to confusion and increased danger for those inside the building. The priority must always be to ensure help is on the way, making the call to 911 the immediate and correct response.