When using a fire extinguisher, where should the spray be directed for effective extinguishment?

For effective extinguishment, the spray from a fire extinguisher should be directed at the base of the fire. This is because fire requires a fuel source, heat, and oxygen to continue burning, and attacking the base addresses the fuel directly. By aiming at the base, you are targeting the source that is actively sustaining the flames rather than just the flames themselves. This method disrupts the fire's fuel supply, which is essential for extinguishing it effectively.

Aiming at the flames or sides may not be as efficient, as it doesn’t directly affect the materials that are fueling the fire. Additionally, addressing the source of oxygen isn’t practical, especially in a typical fire situation, since oxygen is a component of the air and cannot be directly extinguished. Therefore, focusing on the base maximizes the chance of successfully extinguishing the fire by cutting off its fuel.