When discharging a fire extinguisher, how far away should you be positioned from the fire?

Positioning yourself about 8 feet away from a fire when using a fire extinguisher is optimal for several reasons. This distance allows you to maintain a safe margin while effectively targeting the base of the flames. Fire extinguishers are designed to project their extinguishing agents, and being too close could expose you to heat, smoke, or flames.

At 8 feet, you can create a balance between safety and effectiveness; the extinguisher's stream can reach the fire while still allowing you enough distance to move and react if the situation changes. This distance is often recommended because it helps maintain a clear line of sight to the fire, enabling precise application of the extinguishing agent.

It's critical to note that being too far away may reduce the effectiveness of the extinguisher's discharge, while being too close can put you in danger. The recommended distance ensures that you can adequately address the fire without compromising your safety.