Airliner 99
Flight Crew Commercial; Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Multiengine
Troubleshooting; Time Pressure
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Smoke / Fire / Fumes / Odor
Air Traffic Control Provided Assistance; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; Flight Crew Requested ATC Assistance / Clarification; General Maintenance Action
Aircraft
During initial climb out of ZZZ I noted a distinct burning or melting smell. I noted it and continued climbing monitoring the engine gauges for abnormalities. When climbing through approximately 7;000-8;000 feet the left hand fire T-Handle illuminated. After acknowledging it; I performed the memory items and started my timer per the SOP. I then observed the #1 engine gauges and visually inspected the nacelle for any actual fire indications. Knowing the T-handle is prone to erroneous indications during heavy precipitation or sunlight in the cowling; I took those factors into account.  I did not note a fire but the burning smell persisted along with the fact I was not in precipitation and the sun was down. These three factors did not satisfy my thought that this was a false indication. I continued with the memory items and secured the #1 engine. I advised ATC and [told them] to standby while I focused on completing my checklists. I completed all the items on the checklist including deploying the halon bottle due to the T-handle still being illuminated. The T-Handle extinguished approximately a minute or so after I deployed the extinguisher. I then [advised ATC] and asked [them] if the weather was better at any other nearby airports; to which we determined was not the case.  I determined the best course of action was to return to ZZZ due to my familiarity with the approach and the fact that my radios were already set up for the ILS XX from the departure. ATC also advised me that they were going to roll the emergency vehicles. I received vectors; executed the approach; and landed without incident. I exited the runway and shut the plane down. I then called the Operations; Dispatch; and Maintenance Control in that order. I was eventually towed to the hangar and the cargo was offloaded by the customer.
First Officer reported that the T-Handle illuminated during climb possibly due to an erroneous indication. Reporter stated the engine was secured and an uneventful air return was made.