What should you do if you see smoldering materials in a trash bin?

When smoldering materials are detected in a trash bin, the appropriate action is to immediately notify the Pilot in Command (PIC). This is critical for several reasons. First and foremost, the PIC is responsible for the overall safety and security of the flight and has the authority to make decisions that ensure the well-being of all passengers and crew. Notifying the PIC ensures that the situation is escalated to the most responsible party, who can assess the risk and take appropriate action.

Additionally, the presence of smoldering materials indicates a potential fire risk that could escalate quickly if not addressed properly. The PIC can coordinate further actions, which may include using onboard fire-fighting equipment, evacuating affected areas, or even making emergency landings if the situation warrants it.

While smothering the materials or trying to extinguish them personally may seem like an immediate solution, these actions can pose significant risks due to potential toxic smoke or flames that could develop. Ignoring the situation is clearly unsafe, as it may allow a small problem to evolve into a serious emergency. For these reasons, notifying the PIC is not only the correct action but also aligns with standard operating procedures regarding cabin safety and emergency protocols.