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The proper response to a fire on board a vessel is to sound the alarm, contain the fire, and evacuate if necessary. This response prioritizes safety and efficiency in dealing with a fire emergency.

Sounding the alarm immediately notifies all crew members and passengers to the danger, allowing them to take appropriate action. Containing the fire is crucial, as it helps prevent the situation from escalating and minimizes damage. If the fire cannot be controlled quickly, it may be necessary to evacuate the vessel to ensure everyone's safety. This approach emphasizes the importance of first notifying others, assessing the situation, and acting appropriately based on the fire's severity.

While initiating firefighting measures is essential, doing so without notifying others and assessing the situation can lead to chaos and injuries. Alerting the Coast Guard and waiting for assistance is not effective in an immediate emergency, as delays can result in the fire spreading. Using fire extinguishers indiscriminately can worsen the situation, especially if the wrong type of extinguisher is used for the specific class of fire. Effective fire response requires a systematic approach that prioritizes safety and proper procedures.