What is an immediate action to take during an internal engine fire?

In the event of an internal engine fire, winding the engine (also known as windmilling) for up to five minutes is a crucial immediate action. This process involves allowing the engine to continue running while maintaining airflow through it. The airflow helps to cool the engine components and can sometimes assist in extinguishing the flames by removing combustion products and reducing heat buildup.

Windmilling is particularly important because it can prevent further damage to the engine, as a sudden shutdown may lead to unburned fuel accumulating and potentially exacerbating the fire. The benefits of keeping the engine operational, even temporarily, help mitigate risks associated with internal fires.

Shutting off all power, deploying a parachute, and activating the emergency beacon may be necessary actions in different scenarios or stages of managing an emergency, but in the specific context of dealing with an internal engine fire, windmilling is the most immediate and appropriate response.