Final answer:
The first thing an employee should ask themselves when a fire occurs is 'What is the nearest and safest exit route?'. They should also be aware of fire safety equipment and alert relevant authorities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first thing an employee should ask themselves when a fire occurs is 'What is the nearest and safest exit route?'. This question is crucial because it helps the employee determine the best path to escape from the building and avoid potential dangers.
Additionally, it is important for employees to be familiar with the location of fire extinguishers and other safety equipment in the workplace, so they can use them if necessary or inform others about their locations. Lastly, it is advisable to alert their supervisors or call emergency services as soon as possible to ensure proper response to the fire.