When using a fire extinguisher, you should aim to

When using a fire extinguisher, you should aim to

• A. And sweep along the base of the fire
• B. Extinguisher at the base and hold still
• C. And sweep at the fire's flames
• D. At the flames and hold still

Answer: (A)

The main idea is to attack the fuel source. Aiming at the base of the fire allows the extinguishing agent to cool the burning material and interrupt the heat-fuel-oxygen cycle right where the fuel is burning. If you aim at the flames themselves, you’re not reaching the material that’s feeding the fire, so it’s harder to stop. Once you’re at the base, sweep the nozzle from side to side to blanket the fuel with the extinguishing agent until the fire is out or you have to retreat to safety. Holding still won’t cover the fuel, and directing the stream at the flames won’t be as effective.

The main idea is to attack the fuel source. Aiming at the base of the fire allows the extinguishing agent to cool the burning material and interrupt the heat-fuel-oxygen cycle right where the fuel is burning. If you aim at the flames themselves, you’re not reaching the material that’s feeding the fire, so it’s harder to stop. Once you’re at the base, sweep the nozzle from side to side to blanket the fuel with the extinguishing agent until the fire is out or you have to retreat to safety. Holding still won’t cover the fuel, and directing the stream at the flames won’t be as effective.