Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) SLC Practice Exam

How can a fire be effectively confined to a specific area?

1. By using fire extinguishers

2. By closing doors and windows

3. By using water to douse the flames

4. By removing nearby furniture

The correct answer is: By closing doors and windows

Closing doors and windows is an effective method for confining a fire to a specific area because it helps to contain the flames and limit the availability of oxygen, which is essential for combustion. When doors and windows are closed, the fire is restricted to its originating area, preventing it from spreading into other parts of a building. This strategy is critical in a fire emergency, as it can buy time for occupants to evacuate and for emergency responders to arrive. In contrast, while using fire extinguishers, dousing flames with water, or removing nearby furniture might be helpful in managing or extinguishing a fire, they do not necessarily prevent the fire from spreading. Fire extinguishers must be used properly and are effective only on certain classes of fires, while water can be ineffective and even hazardous for certain fire types. Removing furniture can reduce fuel but does not contain the fire in its current location. Each of these methods has its place in fire safety, but closing doors and windows specifically serves the purpose of confining a fire effectively.