What should a flight attendant do when they notice a fire in the cabin?

When a flight attendant notices a fire in the cabin, the appropriate action is to immediately inform the captain and follow emergency procedures. This response is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, the flight crew is trained to handle emergencies through established protocols that are designed to ensure the safety of everyone on board. Informing the captain allows for quick coordination among the flight crew and a assessment of the situation from a leadership perspective.

The captain has the authority and training to make critical decisions regarding the aircraft's operation, which could include diverting the flight or preparing for an emergency landing. Following established emergency procedures ensures that all actions taken are systematic and reduce the risk of confusion and panic among passengers.

Attempting to extinguish the fire alone can be dangerous without the proper equipment and could escalate the situation. Evacuating all passengers immediately is usually not warranted unless the fire poses an imminent threat to their safety, as it may result in chaos and further risk. Ignoring the situation is never an option, as even small fires can rapidly grow and become unmanageable. Thus, communicating with the captain and adhering to emergency protocols is the key action for ensuring safety in such critical situations.