What should not be done when a fire ignites near munitions?

When a fire ignites near munitions, attempting to extinguish it without following established protocols is inappropriate and dangerous. Proper protocols are crucial when dealing with fires in close proximity to munitions due to the significant risks involved, including explosions and the release of harmful materials.

Protocols are designed to ensure the safety of personnel and the public and to mitigate potential hazards effectively. They provide guidance on how to assess the situation, determine the appropriate response, and take necessary actions while minimizing risk. Attempting to extinguish the fire without these protocols can lead to poorly coordinated efforts that may exacerbate the situation, jeopardize safety, and hinder effective firefighting measures.

In contrast, conducting an assessment of the spread allows personnel to understand the fire's potential growth and devise a safe and effective response strategy. Evacuating non-essential personnel ensures that those who do not need to be in the vicinity are kept safe, while alerting emergency services ensures that professional responders, equipped to handle such situations, are on their way to manage the fire appropriately. Each of these actions aligns with the necessary safety protocols designed to handle fires near munitions systematically and effectively.