What immediate actions do flight attendants take when an emergency exit is blocked?

When faced with a scenario where an emergency exit is blocked, flight attendants are trained to prioritize passenger safety and mitigate potential dangers efficiently. By directing passengers to alternative exits and assisting with their evacuation, flight attendants ensure that everyone can exit the aircraft quickly while still maintaining order and calmness in a potentially chaotic situation.

This response is critical because it allows for a swift evacuation, which is essential in emergencies where every second counts. Flight attendants utilize their training to assess the situation rapidly and make decisions based on the safest available options for evacuation. Their role involves clear communication to guide passengers effectively, which minimizes panic and confusion during an emergency.

In contrast, the other options do not address the immediate needs of the passengers or the urgency of the situation. Ignoring the blockage and simply using the next exit could lead to delays or miscommunication. Waiting for instructions from the cockpit may not be appropriate if immediate action is required, as the crew is trained to act without delay in emergencies. Finally, notifying the ground crew could be part of the protocol, but it does not take precedence over the immediate need to facilitate passenger evacuation in a blocked exit scenario.