What is the purpose of the numbers within the various quadrants of the NFPA 704 Diamond?

signNFPA_704

The numbers within the NFPA 704 Diamond are used to assist professional firefighters in responding to accidents or fires.

CERT members should consider these placards a “STOP SIGN.”

The ONLY action CERT members should take is to evacuate persons who are downwind, as necessary, to an uphill or upwind location.

DO NOT enter the building in an attempt to evacuate persons inside.