Which actions promote fire safety in the OR?

• A. Keep open flames near sterile field to warm equipment.
• B. Disable alarms to avoid panic.
• C. Prevent ignition sources near flammable anesthetic agents; keep a fire extinguisher nearby; follow fire drill protocols and know evacuation procedures.
• D. Rely on patient to extinguish fires.

Answer: (C)

Fire safety in the OR hinges on controlling ignition sources around flammable anesthetic vapors and being prepared to respond quickly. In the operating room, oxygen-rich environments plus volatile anesthetic agents create a significant fire risk, so anything that could ignite—electrical equipment, cautery devices, lasers, or other heat sources—should be kept away from vapors. That reduction in ignition opportunities is the most effective preventive step. Having a fire extinguisher readily accessible allows immediate containment if a fire starts, and knowing fire drill protocols and evacuation procedures ensures the team can act quickly and organized to protect the patient and staff. Relying on open flames, disabling alarms, or expecting the patient to handle a fire would dramatically raise danger and do not promote safety.