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When responding to a call about a fire alarm, what should be confirmed first?

  1. The presence of smoke

  2. The authenticity of the alarm

  3. The location of the nearest exit

  4. The type of building involved

The correct answer is: The authenticity of the alarm

In responding to a call about a fire alarm, the first priority is to confirm the authenticity of the alarm. This step is vital because it helps in assessing the urgency and credibility of the situation. A false alarm can lead to unnecessary mobilization of emergency services, diverting resources away from real emergencies. By determining whether the fire alarm is genuine, dispatchers can provide accurate information to responders and ensure that the appropriate response is taken. If the alarm is deemed to be authentic, dispatchers can then gather additional critical information such as the presence of smoke, the type of building, and the location of exits, all of which will aid in the response strategy. This sequence is essential to maintain safety, efficiency, and resource allocation in emergency situations.