A home health nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client about kitchen safety. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include about fire extinguisher use?

A. Store the fire extinguisher in a locked cabinet: Fire extinguishers should be stored in an accessible location, not locked away. In an emergency, immediate access is critical, and a locked cabinet could delay response and worsen fire hazards. B. Aim the extinguisher at the top of the fire and move downward: The correct technique is to aim at the base of the fire, where the fuel source is located. Spraying at the flames themselves is ineffective because it does not interrupt the combustion process at its source. C. Sweep the extinguisher from side to side to put out the fire: Once aimed at the base of the fire, sweeping from side to side ensures the extinguishing agent covers the entire fuel source, maximizing effectiveness and helping to prevent re-ignition. This is the recommended method for safe and efficient fire suppression. D. Open the windows prior to discharging the fire extinguisher: Opening windows before using an extinguisher can increase oxygen flow to the fire, potentially making it burn more intensely. Fire suppression should be performed with doors and windows closed if possible to limit oxygen supply and contain the fire.