Which scenario best describes a responder's action when encountering hazardous smoke?

Responding effectively to hazardous smoke is critical for ensuring the safety of both responders and civilians. Assessing the smoke allows responders to gather vital information about its source, composition, and potential dangers. This evaluation helps in deciding the appropriate strategy to mitigate the risks involved. By adjusting the strategy based on the assessment, responders can prioritize actions such as protective measures, deployment of resources, and potential evacuation of affected areas.

In contrast, ignoring the smoke can put lives at risk as it may lead to underestimating its dangers. Immediate evacuation without alerting others could create panic and confusion, endangering those who are unprepared. Attempting to extinguish the source without proper assessment may exacerbate the situation if the fire is more extensive or hazardous than anticipated. Therefore, the correct approach emphasizes the importance of understanding the situation before taking further action.