In the context of RACE, what does 'Contain/Confine' mean?

• A. Move residents away from the fire
• B. Wait for instructions
• C. Stop the spread of fire by containing it
• D. Sound the alarm only

Answer: (C)

Contain/Confine means stopping the spread of the fire by isolating it to the area where it started. The goal is to create barriers and limit airflow so flames and smoke don’t move into other rooms or corridors. Practically, this involves closing doors to the room or area of origin (and keeping them closed to maintain the barrier), and only moving residents or equipment if you can do so safely. If it’s safe and you’re trained, you may shut off nearby fuel sources or utilities and use a small extinguisher to help control the fire. This step is about containing the danger so evacuation and rescue can proceed with less risk. The other actions described (rescuing residents, waiting for instructions, or sounding the alarm only) belong to the other parts of the RACE sequence.