What should a flight attendant do if they detect smoke in the lavatory?

When a flight attendant detects smoke in the lavatory, the appropriate response is to investigate the source, alert the captain, and prepare for possible evacuation. This approach is critical for several reasons. First, detecting smoke indicates a potential fire hazard, which poses a serious risk to the safety of everyone on board. By investigating the source, the flight attendant can determine whether it is a false alarm, such as from a smoking device, or an actual fire that requires immediate attention.

Notifying the captain is essential because the captain is responsible for the overall safety of the flight and must be made aware of any emergency situations so that they can take appropriate action. This might include preparing for an emergency landing or implementing other safety protocols.

Preparing for a possible evacuation is a proactive measure in case the situation escalates. The flight attendant must be ready to guide passengers safely out of the aircraft if necessary. This preparation can make a significant difference in ensuring safety and order during a potentially chaotic situation.

Ignoring the smoke would endanger everyone on the flight, waiting for instructions from the passengers would not be appropriate in an emergency, and gathering passengers in the lavatory would risk their safety instead of addressing the dangerous situation. Recognizing the seriousness of smoke detection ensures that swift and suitable actions