During a smoke and fire emergency, what is the recommended action?

In a smoke and fire emergency, covering your nose and mouth is a crucial step to ensure that you minimize inhalation of potentially toxic smoke and fumes. When smoke is present, it can contain harmful chemicals and particulates that can impair breathing and lead to disorientation or loss of consciousness. By covering your nose and mouth, especially with a cloth, you create a barrier that filters some of the air you inhale, providing better chances of maintaining clear airways as you move towards safety.

While it is also important to get above the smoke, as smoke rises and can create a safer environment closer to the ceiling, the immediate action of protecting your airway is essential to sustain your ability to evacuate effectively. Running toward the nearest exit is typically advised, but without first addressing the smoke inhalation risk, this can lead to confusion or harm. Activating emergency lights is not a recommended immediate action for individuals during a smoke and fire emergency, as this is generally handled by trained personnel. Therefore, the best immediate measure focuses on protecting oneself from the hazardous effects of smoke inhalation.