where should a fire extinguisher be aimed to smother small fires?\nat the top of the fire\naround the area…

Brief Explanations:

When using a fire extinguisher to smother small fires, aiming at the base of the fire is correct. This is because the base is where the fuel source (what is burning) is located. By targeting the base, the extinguishing agent (like foam, powder etc.) can cut off the fuel - oxygen - heat triangle (the elements needed for fire). Aiming at the top (just puts out flames temporarily as fuel is still burning), around the area (may not reach the core fuel source effectively), or the nearest flame (similar to aiming at the top, doesn't address the root cause) are not as effective.

Answer:

At the base of the fire