To put out a fire, where should the fire extinguisher be aimed at?

To put out a fire, where should the fire extinguisher be aimed at?

• A. At the ceiling
• B. At the base of the fire
• C. In the hallways
• D. In the entry of the building only

Answer: (B)

The best way to use a fire extinguisher is to aim at the base of the fire. That’s where the fuel source is burning, so directing the extinguishing agent there cools or separates the fuel from the flame, stopping the fire from continuing. If you aim at the flames themselves or at the ceiling, the agent may not reach the fuel, and the fire can keep burning or reignite. Aiming at the base and sweeping the nozzle across the area ensures the fuel at the bottom is hit and the fire is suppressed.

The best way to use a fire extinguisher is to aim at the base of the fire. That’s where the fuel source is burning, so directing the extinguishing agent there cools or separates the fuel from the flame, stopping the fire from continuing. If you aim at the flames themselves or at the ceiling, the agent may not reach the fuel, and the fire can keep burning or reignite. Aiming at the base and sweeping the nozzle across the area ensures the fuel at the bottom is hit and the fire is suppressed.