What should you NOT do when using a fire extinguisher?

When using a fire extinguisher, it is crucial to maintain a safe distance from the fire to ensure personal safety and allow for effective operation of the extinguisher. Standing too close to the fire can expose you to heat, smoke, and flames, which may impede your ability to extinguish the fire effectively and put you at risk of injury. By keeping an appropriate distance, you can aim accurately and use the extinguisher more safely.

In contrast, aiming at the base of the flames is essential for effectively targeting the fuel source of the fire, pulling the pin is necessary to activate the extinguisher, and sweeping side to side helps cover the fire efficiently. All these actions are critical parts of the proper use of a fire extinguisher.