What is the primary purpose of using a fire extinguisher?

The primary purpose of using a fire extinguisher is to contain the fire until help arrives. This means that the extinguisher is intended to control or extinguish small fires in order to prevent them from spreading and becoming larger emergencies. By effectively using a fire extinguisher early on, individuals can often suppress a fire before it escalates, thereby reducing the risk to life and property.

Other purposes, such as minimizing property damage or preventing smoke inhalation, may be secondary benefits of using an extinguisher; however, they do not articulate the primary function. Additionally, while it is important to call for professional help, the extinguisher is not meant to eliminate the need for emergency services but rather to provide immediate assistance in managing the situation until trained personnel can take over.