How should you sweep the extinguisher during discharge?

• A. Sweep upward toward the ceiling to starve oxygen.
• B. Sweep rapidly from left to right along the top edge of the flame.
• C. Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire until it appears out or the fire is out.
• D. Hold it still and spray in a single spot until exhausted.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is to treat the base of the fire with the extinguishing agent and move the stream across that area. By sweeping from side to side at the base, you’re targeting the fuel that’s burning and working to interrupt the flame’s source of energy. This makes the fire shrink and helps prevent reignition because you’re consistently applying the suppressant where it can do the most good—cooling the fuel and smothering the flames as they rise from the fuel source.

If you aim at the flames or sweep along the top edge, you’re not attacking the fuel source directly, so the fire can persist or spread. Holding the spray in one spot wastes extinguishing agent and gives the fire a chance to continue burning. Keep the nozzle moving steadily, cover the base with your sweep, and continue until the fire is completely out or you’re sure it cannot reflash, all while staying ready to retreat to safety if the situation worsens.