What 'type' the fire is. The right extinguisher must be used for any fire. Or, more importantly - it can be very dangerous to use the wrong type of extinguisher, such as one with water should never be used on an electrical fire.
you'll never know when any type of fire extinguisher can come handy in case of a fire
Fire extinguisher
A Class C fire extinguisher should be used for electrical fires.
the base of the fire
A tight-fitting lid, a fire blanket, a box of sodium bicarbonate or salt may work, but a type ABC fire extinguisher would be best. Turn off the electric source as well. Under NO circumstances use a water-type (often class A) on a hot oil fire or on an energized electrical device.
A Class A fire extinguisher should be used specifically for wood fires.
Never ever use water on a gasoline fire or the fire will just spread. Smother it with sand, dirt, or a fire extinguisher specifically made for a gasoline fire.
at the base of the fire
at the base of the fire
Downwind from the fire.
use fire extinguisher