When using any type of fire extinguisher, the correct method is to

When using any type of fire extinguisher, the correct method is to

• A. Aim at the flame
• B. Pull the pin
• C. Sweep side to side at the base of the flame
• D. Sweep from side to side at the base of the flame

Answer: (C)

The essential action is to apply the extinguishing agent where the fuel and air meet—the base of the fire. Sweeping side to side at the base covers the fuel source so the agent can cool and smother the flames, effectively stopping the fire from continuing to burn. Aiming at the flame itself is less effective because the agent may not reach the fuel, and the fire can keep burning. Pulling the pin is an initial step to activate the extinguisher, but once it's ready, the way you move the nozzle is to sweep at the base to knock the fire down.

The essential action is to apply the extinguishing agent where the fuel and air meet—the base of the fire. Sweeping side to side at the base covers the fuel source so the agent can cool and smother the flames, effectively stopping the fire from continuing to burn. Aiming at the flame itself is less effective because the agent may not reach the fuel, and the fire can keep burning. Pulling the pin is an initial step to activate the extinguisher, but once it's ready, the way you move the nozzle is to sweep at the base to knock the fire down.