Upon hearing the fire and emergency signal, what action should you take immediately?

In an emergency situation, such as hearing the fire and emergency signal, the immediate priority is to activate the equipment necessary to combat the fire. Starting the fire pumps ensures that there is prompt access to water, which is essential for firefighting efforts. Time is critical in these situations, and being prepared to fight a fire can prevent a small incident from escalating into a major disaster.

While it is also important to alert the captain, evacuate the vessel, and verify alarm systems, these actions may follow the immediate response of ensuring firefighting equipment is operational. The crew must prioritize actions that directly address potential threats to safety, and getting the fire pumps ready is a key step in that process.