Question

Some safety tools help you stay safe before something bad happens. Others are for when something goes wrong. Can you explain the difference and give one example of each?

Answer 1

Certainly! Safety tools can generally be categorized into two types: **preventive tools** and **reactive tools**.

### Preventive Tools
These are designed to help avoid accidents or dangerous situations before they occur. Their primary purpose is to assess risks and enhance safety through proactive measures.

**Example of a Preventive Tool:**
- **Smoke Detectors**: Smoke detectors are installed in homes and buildings to warn occupants of smoke and fire before they become a more dangerous situation. By alerting people early, they can evacuate safely and minimize the risk of injury or loss.

### Reactive Tools
These tools come into play after an incident has occurred. They are designed to manage the aftermath, minimize damage, or provide assistance once a unsafe situation has already taken place.

**Example of a Reactive Tool:**
- **Fire Extinguishers**: Fire extinguishers are used to put out small fires or to control them until the fire department arrives. They are essential in reacting to a fire incident, helping to limit damage and protect lives once a fire has started.

In summary, preventive tools aim to stop problems from arising, while reactive tools are used to address issues after they occur.