Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) Practice Exam 2024

When using a fire extinguisher you should always aim the nozzle

1. At the flames directly

2. At the flames indirectly

3. At the top of the flames

4. At the base of the flames

The correct answer is: At the base of the flames

When using a fire extinguisher, aiming at the base of the flames is the correct approach because this is where the fuel source, which is feeding the fire, is located. By targeting the base, you can effectively suppress the fire and cut off its fuel supply, which is essential for extinguishing it. Aiming directly at the flames may not effectively address the core issue of the fire since the flames are often just the visible part of the combustion process. Hitting the flames may instead create a burst of heat and further spread the fire depending on the type of fire extinguisher and the nature of the fire. Aiming indirectly or at the top of the flames does not help in tackling the fire effectively as it allows the combustion to continue from the fuel source. In firefighting, the priority is always to control and eliminate the source of the fire rather than just managing the flames themselves. Therefore, the most effective technique is to aim at the base, ensuring that you are disrupting the materials that are burning and preventing the fire from escalating.