During fire drills, what should personnel do first?

During fire drills, the primary objective is to ensure the safety of all personnel by practicing a coordinated and effective evacuation. When the drill is initiated, the first action should be to evacuate according to the established fire escape plan. This plan is designed to guide personnel to exit the building or designated areas safely and efficiently, minimizing the risks associated with fire exposure.

Evacuating promptly allows everyone to understand the importance of following designated routes, utilizing emergency exits, and gathering at predetermined assembly points. This practice reinforces the significance of knowing one's role in an emergency situation and familiarizes individuals with the evacuation procedures, ultimately supporting a quicker and more organized response during an actual fire event.

Other options, such as gathering in a common room, waiting for instructions, or looking for personal belongings, could lead to confusion, delays, and increased dangers during an emergency, which is why they are not appropriate first actions during fire drills.