Public Safety

Extinguisher Training

P.A.S.S. Method

It's easy to remember how to use a fire extinguisher if you remember the acronym PASS:

This image demonstrates a person pulling a pin out of a fire extinguisher.

Pull

Pull the pin. This will allow you to discharge the extinguisher.

This image demonstrates a person aiming at the base of a fire with a fire extinguisher.

Aim

Aim at the base of the fire. If you aim at the flames (which is frequently the temptation), the extinguishing agent will fan the flames. You want to hit the fuel. The goal is to get between the item burning and the flames which originate at the base.

This image demonstrates a person squeezing the handle of a fire extinguisher.

Squeeze

Squeeze the top handle or if you are unable to squeeze the handle, remove the pin. This (squeezing the handle) depresses a button that releases the pressurized extinguishing agent in the extinguisher.

This image demonstrates a person sweeping a fire extinguisher at a fire.

Sweep

Sweep from side to side until the fire is completely out. Start using the extinguisher from a safe distance away, and then move forward. Once the fire is out, keep an eye on the area in case it re-ignites. Never turn your back on a fire, even if you believe it to be extinguished. It can rekindle.

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