What should a person do if a smoke detector's alarm sounds while cooking?

When a smoke detector's alarm sounds while cooking, it is crucial to prioritize safety by checking for smoke or fire and addressing the cause before silencing the alarm. This response is vital because the activation of a smoke detector indicates a potential fire hazard that could pose a serious risk to life and property. Ignoring the alarm or silencing it without investigation can lead to catastrophic outcomes if there is indeed a fire that hasn't been detected visually.

Taking the time to ensure that there is no smoke or fire allows for an informed decision on how to proceed safely. If the cause of the alarm is due to cooking a meal that may have produced accidental smoke (like from burnt food), after addressing the situation and ensuring safety, the alarm can be silenced. This response balances the need to address the immediate risk while also recognizing that false alarms can happen without significant danger.