What does the "R" in the "RACE" acronym for fire safety stand for?

The "R" in the "RACE" acronym for fire safety stands for "Rescue." This initial step emphasizes the priority of ensuring the safety of individuals in a dangerous situation. When a fire is discovered, the first action should be to rescue anyone in immediate danger if it is safe to do so. This includes helping those who may be trapped or unable to evacuate themselves, such as individuals with mobility issues or those who may not be aware of the fire.

This approach is part of a systematic way to address fire emergencies. The subsequent steps in the RACE acronym follow the rescue process: Alerting others to the fire, Containing the fire if possible, and Evacuating the area. The focus on rescue underscores the importance of life safety in emergency situations, prioritizing human life before any property concerns or attempts to fight the fire directly.