What is a key indication that a fire needs to be extinguished?

The presence of a small and controllable fire is a key indication that it can potentially be extinguished. Fire safety protocols often allow for the attempt to put out a fire if it is manageable, as long as it is safe to do so. This can involve using a fire extinguisher, for example, on a fire that hasn't spread significantly and poses a reasonable threat. It allows for a proactive response before the situation escalates to a point where evacuation becomes necessary.

In contrast, the presence of smoke indicates that a fire is already producing harmful byproducts, which may signal an advanced stage of combustion that could be dangerous to confront. An evacuated area signifies that the situation has likely reached a level of risk where individuals should no longer remain on site. Therefore, while these indicators are important in the context of a fire emergency, they do not directly suggest that the fire can or should be extinguished safely.