What is meant by 'defending in place' during a fire emergency?

'Defending in place' during a fire emergency refers to the practice of remaining inside one's apartment or unit while taking specific actions, such as closing doors and sealing off any openings to block smoke from entering. This approach is based on the understanding that modern high-rise buildings are designed with fire-resistive materials and features, often providing a relatively safe environment for occupants to stay put until help arrives or until the situation is resolved. The intent is to reduce the risk of exposure to smoke and flames that could occur during an evacuation, especially in a chaotic and potentially dangerous situation.

This strategy is particularly vital in buildings where evacuation may not be immediately safe or feasible due to smoke or fire conditions in common areas. It allows individuals to stay safe while ensuring that they are also prepared to evacuate if conditions change. The other options, such as immediate evacuation by any means or waiting for rescue, do not align with the 'defending in place' concept, which emphasizes staying protected in your current location rather than exposing oneself to more danger.