When should a crew member use an escape route instead of attempting to fight a fire?

A crew member should prioritize using an escape route instead of attempting to fight a fire when the fire has become too large or out of control. This situation indicates that the risk to personal safety is significantly elevated, and the fire likely exceeds the capacity of an individual to effectively combat it without appropriate support or equipment.

Fighting fires involves considerable risks, including the potential for smoke inhalation, heat exposure, and structural collapse. When a fire escalates beyond a manageable size, it can produce rapid changes in fire dynamics, potentially leading to flashover or other dangerous conditions. Under these circumstances, the safest option is to evacuate and leave firefighting efforts to trained professionals or those equipped with the necessary resources.

In scenarios where the fire is small and manageable, it may be reasonable for a trained crew member to attempt to extinguish it, provided they are adequately prepared. However, lacking protective gear would also advise against engagement, as the risks increase without proper protection. The presence of other crew members generally provides support and helps in coordinating efforts, making the situation more manageable.