When using a fire extinguisher on an automotive fire, where should you aim?

• A. At the top of the flames.
• B. At the center of the fire.
• C. At the nozzle tip only.
• D. At the base of the fire.

Answer: (D)

Aiming at the base of the fire is the best approach because that’s where the fuel and heat feed the flames. Directing the extinguishing agent at the base cools the burning fuel and blankets the fire at its source, which stops the chemical reactions that keep the fire going. Spraying toward the top or center misses the fuel source and doesn’t interrupt the ongoing combustion, so the flames are more likely to persist or reflash. In an automotive fire, you typically sweep the area at the base—near the engine or fuel-source area—from a safe distance to silence the flames quickly and reduce the chance of reignition.