During extinguishing, after aiming at the base, what is the correct action?

• A. Squeeze the handle
• B. Sweep the base of the flame from side to side and front to back
• C. Exit the room immediately
• D. Re-aim at the top of the flame

Answer: (B)

When using a fire extinguisher, the goal is to starve the flame of its fuel at the base. After you aim at the base, the correct move is to sweep the nozzle across the base from side to side and front to back. This sweeping action applies the extinguishing agent evenly to the fuel source, cooling it and interrupting the chemical reaction, which helps prevent reignition. Squeezing the handle releases the agent, but you must sweep to actually cover the base and put the fire out. Re-aiming at the top of the flame misses the fuel source and is less effective. Exit only if the fire becomes unmanageable or you’re instructed to evacuate.