What is the primary purpose of a fire extinguisher?

The primary purpose of a fire extinguisher is to control and extinguish small fires. Fire extinguishers are designed specifically to provide a first line of defense against small fires, enabling individuals to quickly intervene before the fire grows larger and becomes unmanageable. They contain agents such as water, foam, dry chemicals, or CO2, each suited for different types of fires based on the fuel involved (e.g., wood, flammable liquids, electrical equipment).

Using a fire extinguisher correctly can help prevent extensive damage, reduce the risk of injury, and enhance safety by ensuring that a small fire does not escalate. While other options like ventilating smoke or alerting emergency services are important aspects of overall fire safety, they are not the primary function of a fire extinguisher. The focus is on immediate action to handle a fire situation effectively when it is still in its early stages.