What motion should you use when pumping the fire extinguisher?

What motion should you use when pumping the fire extinguisher?

• A. Sweep the extinguisher towards where the wind is blowing
• B. Sweep the extinguisher up-and-down, starting at the base of the fire
• C. Sweep the extinguisher from side-to-side starting at one side of the fire
• D. Sweep the extinguisher from side-to-side, starting from the middle of the fire

Answer: (C)

When using a fire extinguisher, you want to attack the fuel at the base of the fire with a controlled side-to-side sweep. Starting from one side and moving across to the other covers the entire base, cutting off the heat and reducing the flames where the fuel is feeding the fire. Sweeping upward or starting in the middle risks missing the base and letting the fire continue to spread. A side-to-side motion at the base is the most effective way to blanket the fire and maximize your chances of putting it out.

When using a fire extinguisher, you want to attack the fuel at the base of the fire with a controlled side-to-side sweep. Starting from one side and moving across to the other covers the entire base, cutting off the heat and reducing the flames where the fuel is feeding the fire. Sweeping upward or starting in the middle risks missing the base and letting the fire continue to spread. A side-to-side motion at the base is the most effective way to blanket the fire and maximize your chances of putting it out.