When using a fire extinguisher on a fire, you should:
Answers
Get as close to the fire as possible.
Stay as far away from the fire as possible.
Aim the extinguisher at the top of the flames.
Aim the fire extinguisher at the ground about two feet away from the fire.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Stay as far away from the fire as possible.
When using a fire extinguisher, the goal is to effectively put out the fire while ensuring your own safety. The general guideline is to maintain a safe distance from the fire to avoid exposure to dangerous heat, smoke, or fumes.
Here’s why staying a safe distance is important:
- Safety First: Fire extinguishers are designed to put out fires at a safe distance. The recommended distance varies by type of extinguisher, but generally, you should be about 6 to 8 feet away from a small fire and adjust as necessary based on the size and intensity of the fire. Being too close to the fire can expose you to excessive heat, which can cause injury or make it harder to aim effectively.
- Effectiveness of the Extinguisher: A fire extinguisher works by displacing oxygen or cooling the flame. If you’re too close, the extinguishing agent may not spread effectively to all parts of the fire, reducing the chances of success. A safe distance allows you to maintain a wider reach and more control over where you aim the extinguisher.
- Fire Behavior: Fires can spread rapidly, and being too close can put you at risk of being trapped or caught in the fire. Fires can also emit toxic gases, smoke, and intense heat. By staying at a safe distance, you reduce the risks associated with inhaling smoke or being overwhelmed by the flames.
- Technique: When using a fire extinguisher, you should aim at the base of the fire, not the flames themselves. This is where the fire’s fuel source is located. In addition, using the “PASS” technique—Pull the pin, Aim at the base, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side—maximizes the effectiveness of the extinguisher. Always keep an exit route in mind in case the fire cannot be controlled.
By staying a safe distance from the fire and using proper technique, you can effectively and safely address small fires. However, always prioritize your safety and evacuate if the fire becomes unmanageable.