What should occupants notify FIRST in the event of a fire during a drill?

In the event of a fire during a drill, occupants should notify 911 first. This is because calling 911 is the critical step to ensure that professional emergency services are alerted and can respond promptly to any real emergency situation. The importance of notifying 911 lies in the fact that it connects the incident with local emergency responders who can provide necessary assistance, control, and extinguish the fire if needed.

Even in a drill where the focus may be on practicing evacuation and alerting protocols, the principle remains that activating the emergency response system is of paramount importance in ensuring safety. Other notifications, such as informing the Fire Command Center, the building's staff, or the fire warden, are subsequent steps that can help manage the situation, but they do not take precedence over ensuring that emergency services are alerted as soon as possible. This practice cultivates a culture of safety and preparedness among occupants, empowering them to take quick and effective action in real-life scenarios.