If all the conditions in the last lesson are met, the standard way to use an extinguisher is PASS. Learn the steps now. In a real fire there is no time to read the label.
P: Pull the pin
Hold the extinguisher upright. Pull the pin at the top of the handle. This breaks the tamper seal, a thin plastic tie that shows nobody has used the extinguisher. Some models have a different release, so check the label beforehand.
A: Aim low
Point the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire, where the fuel is. Do not aim at the flames or at the smoke above them. A flame is only the visible part of burning fuel. With a CO2 extinguisher, hold the horn by its insulated handle, not by the metal.
S: Squeeze the handle
Squeeze the handle to release the agent. Release it to stop. Keep the extinguisher upright.
S: Sweep from side to side
Sweep the stream from side to side across the base of the fire. Work from the front edge toward the back. Keep an eye on the fire, and keep your exit behind you.
Standing the right distance
Many fire safety guides suggest starting about 6 to 8 feet (about 2 meters) from a small fire. Check the label, since the range differs between models. Step closer a little as the fire shrinks, but never so close that heat or splashing agent hurts you. A small extinguisher is usually empty within seconds, well under a minute, so you have very little time. Do not waste it.
Special points by type
- Flammable liquid fires: do not aim the stream directly into the pool, as it can splash the burning liquid. Sweep from the near edge.
- Cooking oil fires: use only a Class K extinguisher, and only if you are trained. Never throw water. Otherwise leave.
- Electrical fires: if you can, cut the power, but only if it is safe to reach the switch. Then use a Class C rated extinguisher.
- Gas fires: do not extinguish unless the gas can be shut off.
Watch the fire
When the flames appear out, do not turn your back at once. Fires can re-ignite, especially with hot embers, oil, or batteries. Step back, keep the extinguisher ready, and stay watchful until the fire service arrives. If the fire comes back, leave.
If it does not work
If after using the extinguisher the fire is not clearly shrinking, or the extinguisher runs out, leave at once. Close the door behind you. Do not try another one. Do not go back for anything.
After using an extinguisher
- Every extinguisher that has been used must be recharged or replaced, even if it was used for only a few seconds. A part-used extinguisher might not have enough left for the next fire.
- Tell your supervisor so the extinguisher is replaced.
- Do not put it back in its place empty.
- If you have breathed powder, or have any burns or injuries, get checked.
Safety around powder and CO2
- Dry chemical clouds make it hard to see and breathe. Cover your nose and mouth if you can, and ventilate afterwards.
- CO2 gas displaces oxygen in a small closed space. Leave the space after using it.
- Do not point any extinguisher at a person. If someone's clothes are on fire, they should stop, drop and roll while someone calls for help. An extinguisher is not meant for people.
Practice is your employer's job
This lesson describes the steps, but reading is not enough. If you are designated to use extinguishers, your employer must train you in the use of the equipment, and repeat it at least annually.
Key points
- PASS: Pull, Aim at the base, Squeeze, Sweep.
- Stand 6 to 8 feet away, and keep your exit behind you.
- A small extinguisher lasts seconds, not minutes.
- Watch for re-ignition and leave if it grows.
- Replace every extinguisher that has been used.