Where should you aim a fire extinguisher when attempting to put out a fire?

Aiming a fire extinguisher at the base of the fire is the correct approach because this is where the fuel source is located. Fires need fuel, heat, and oxygen to sustain combustion, so targeting the base effectively disrupts the combustion process by smothering the flames and depriving them of fuel.

By directing the extinguisher's discharge at the base, you ensure that the suppressing agent contacts the material that is burning rather than just the flames. This technique is essential because simply aiming at the flames themselves may not extinguish the fire effectively, as the flames can rise above the combustibles.

Additionally, addressing the source of the smoke or aiming toward the ceiling does not focus on eliminating the fuel and could lead to ineffective firefighting efforts. Therefore, focusing on the base is crucial for successfully controlling and extinguishing the fire.