1. We learned yesterday that according to Chazal, one may only extinguish a fire indirectly on Shabbat since fires in their times were not considered to be dangerous. Today, nearly all fires are considered to be potentially life-threatening and one may do anything necessary to extinguish them and ensure people are safe (Shulchan Aruch, O.C. 329:1; Rema 334:26; Mishnah Berurah 334:72-74).

2. Accordingly, a Jew may extinguish, or perform any melachah to enable others to extinguish a fire, even if there is only a small chance anyone remains inside the building. Moreover, there is concern that it may spread to other buildings and may be put out even if everyone has escaped safely. In some countries or regions, there may also be explosive gas canisters nearby that could endanger passersby (Peninei Halacha, Shabbat 16:7).

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Dedicated by Fran Broder as a zechus for everlasting peace in Eretz Yisrael in the merit of learning Hilchos Shabbos.