If a firefighter hears three repeated blasts of an apparatus air horn, what action should they take?

When a firefighter hears three repeated blasts of an apparatus air horn, the appropriate action to take is to evacuate immediately. This signal serves as an urgent warning indicating that there is a serious situation, typically involving a need to evacuate the area due to dangerous conditions such as an impending structural collapse, out-of-control fire, or other life-threatening scenarios.

The use of repeated horn blasts is a standardized protocol in firefighting operations to ensure that all personnel on the scene are alerted efficiently and can take immediate action to protect their safety. The urgency of this signal underscores the importance of recognizing auditory alarms and responding quickly to preserve life.

While ventilation, completion of a rescue, or extinguishment of fire are crucial operations in firefighting, they are not indicated by this specific signal. A firefighter should be well-informed about these signals and their meanings in order to act swiftly and appropriately in emergency situations.