Originally Posted by
TopBunk
I would however be in (slightly) less of a hurry then to evacuate the passengers.
A high percentage of fire warnings are subsequently proven to be false. In the described circumstances and at a good airport with reliable fire services available, if there were no evidence of fire (hot floors, smoke visible, etc) I would be tempted to ask for the fire services to thermally image the holds........
.....If they determined a heat source or one subsequently became apparent, I would evacuate the aircraft by slides.
Second guessing a fire warning is risky business! You're right that "A high percentage of fire warnings are subsequently proven to be false." Not much consolation to pax trapped in the low percentage which are genuine. How long would take for the fire guys to turn up, figure out what you wanted, get the kit out and scan the hold? Add to that the time for the fire to start, get established, activate the sensor, then to get yourself down onto the ground and stationary.....