How should you hold a fire extinguisher when using it?

Holding a fire extinguisher upright with the nozzle pointing away from you is crucial for safety and effective use. This position allows for maximum control over the direction of the discharge when you pull the pin and squeeze the handle. Keeping the nozzle pointed away ensures that you are not exposed to any potential backfire or debris that may be emitted from the extinguisher when activated.

Maneuvering the extinguisher upright also helps in maintaining the proper operational pressure. Fire extinguishers are designed to work best in this position, ensuring that the extinguishing agent can be deployed efficiently towards the source of the fire. This method also aids in the visibility of the flame you're targeting and minimizes the risk of inhaling harmful gases released during a fire.

Other positions, like holding the extinguisher horizontally or directing the nozzle downward, could impede the ability to target the flames effectively or compromise your safety by exposing you to hazardous materials. Each of these alternative positions could decrease the efficiency of extinguishing the fire and increase the risk of injury.