What is the recommended practice for using a fire extinguisher near a small fire in the cabin?

• A. Spray directly at flames from close range.
• B. Point the extinguisher at the smoke.
• C. Use the extinguisher from a safe distance, aim at the base of the fire, and sweep until extinguished.
• D. Turn off power to the aircraft before using.

Answer: (C)

Using a fire extinguisher effectively means approaching from a safe distance and attacking the fire at its base. Aim the nozzle at the base of the flames where the fuel source is feeding the fire, not at the flames themselves. Then sweep the extinguisher from side to side to blanket the area and extinguish the fuel source, continuing until the fire is fully out. This technique minimizes the chance of re-ignition and keeps you out of the hottest part of the fire.

Spraying flames from close range is unsafe and less effective, and focusing on the smoke doesn’t address the flame at its source. Turning off power to the aircraft isn’t part of the basic extinguisher technique, though isolating electrical equipment can be considered if safe. The correct approach emphasizes distance, targeting the base, and sweeping until the fire is extinguished.