What did the workers initially attempt to do when the fire started?

• A. Evacuate immediately
• B. Try to douse the flames
• C. Seek refuge in the stairwell
• D. Call for help

Answer: (B)

When the fire erupted in the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory, the workers initially attempted to douse the flames rather than evacuate immediately. This response was influenced by the chaotic environment and perhaps a lack of understanding of the rapid intensity of the fire. In many cases like this, people often try to fight a fire before recognizing the need for a more strategic plan, which is what happened here. The workers utilized whatever they could find in hopes of controlling the situation, believing they could manage the fire rather than leave the safety of their workspace. This illustrates a common human instinct to try to protect their surroundings and possessions before prioritizing their own safety in a crisis.