When applying foam to a pool of burning fuel, it is important to avoid:

When applying foam to a pool of burning fuel, avoiding agitation of the surface of the liquid is crucial because agitation can disrupt the foam blanket's ability to suppress the fire effectively. Foam is designed to create a film over the fuel's surface, which smothers the flames and cuts off oxygen. If the surface of the liquid is agitated, it may cause the foam to break apart, reducing its effectiveness and allowing the fire to reignite. Maintaining a stable foam coverage is essential for suppressing the combustion process and preventing flare-ups.

In contrast, directing the foam onto surfaces other than the liquid could lead to improper application and ineffective fire suppression. The choice of nozzle is also significant; standard fog or smooth-bore nozzles might not deliver the foam in an effective manner for the specific properties of the burning fuel. Alcohol-resistant formulations are specifically beneficial for certain types of fuels, such as alcohols, and their use is often recommended instead of being avoided.