What should you never do when using a fire extinguisher?

Standing with your back to an exit while using a fire extinguisher is a dangerous practice. It is critical to maintain an escape route in the event that the fire intensifies or the situation becomes uncontrollable. Being positioned with your back to an exit restricts your ability to escape quickly and safely. In a fire emergency, conditions can change rapidly, so ensuring you have a clear path to safety is paramount.

In contrast, watching the flames closely could help you assess the situation, and using the extinguisher according to the instructions ensures you are applying the correct technique for the type of fire you are dealing with. Pointing the nozzle away from the fire would not effectively combat the flames, as the extinguisher needs to direct its material towards the source of the fire to extinguish it properly.