Under what conditions is it appropriate for a crew member to use a fire extinguisher?

• A. Only trained crew may use it.
• B. It should be used only by the Captain.
• C. It should be used by any crew member without training.
• D. It should be used only if trained and it is safe to do so.

Answer: (D)

The key idea is that using a fire extinguisher is a controlled action that must be grounded in training and safety judgment. You should use it only when you have been trained in its proper technique and when you can do so without risking your own safety or hindering a safe evacuation. If the fire is beyond your training or approaching it would put you or others in danger, the right move is to report the fire and follow procedures to isolate it and evacuate. This balance—being trained and acting only when it’s safe—explains why this option is the best choice.