Which immediate action should be taken if a flammable liquid is spilled?

In the case of a flammable liquid spill, sealing the area and reporting the incident is the most prudent immediate action. This approach prioritizes safety by preventing anyone from accidentally coming into contact with the hazardous substance or igniting it. By isolating the scene, it protects individuals in the vicinity, and reporting ensures that trained personnel can respond appropriately, potentially using the right safety measures and equipment to handle the spill.

Other methods, such as cleaning with water, leaving it to evaporate, or using cloths to absorb it, can create further hazards. Water may not effectively suppress the fire risk associated with flammable liquids and could even cause the liquid to spread. Allowing the liquid to evaporate can lead to toxic vapors, and absorbing with cloths can result in them becoming flammable themselves, requiring additional precautions for disposal.