When fighting a small propane fire with an extinguisher, from which direction should you approach?

When using an extinguisher to fight a small propane fire, it's crucial to approach the fire from an upward direction. This is because propane is a heavier-than-air gas that can settle near the ground. By approaching from below, you are able to direct the extinguishing agent upward into the flames where it can effectively disrupt the combustion process and smother the fire.

This technique ensures that you are minimizing the risk of the fire spreading, as well as protecting yourself from potential flare-ups. Additionally, approaching from an upward direction gives you a better chance of reaching the source of the flames and extinguishing the fire at its origin, rather than merely pushing the flames or heat away from you.

Safety protocols recommend maintaining a safe distance and being aware of the wind direction to avoid being caught in the fire’s path, which underscores the importance of knowing how to navigate around such hazards effectively.