Steps on How To Use Fire Extinguishers | The P.A.S.S Method

Fire Extinguisher
Photo of a Fire Extinguisher

This is a technical description on the process of using fire extinguishers. A fire extinguisher is an active fire protection device used to put out or control small fires, often in emergency situations. It is not intended for use on an out-of-control fire and requires the expertise of a fire brigade. Typically, a fire extinguisher consists of a hand-held cylindrical pressure vessel containing an agent which can be discharged to extinguish a fire.

 

STEP 1: Select the Appropriate Type of Fire Extinguisher for the Right Fire

Fire extinguishers come in a wide variety of types — each one designed to put out a different kind of fire This helps users know what type of extinguisher they need to use, depending on the kind of fire there is. These are the 5 classes of fire and their descriptions:

A – Ordinary solid combustibles like wood, cloth, and paper products.
B – Flammable liquids and gases.
C – Electrical fires.
D – Flammable metals.
K – Oils and grease fires.

Most fire extinguishers for homes and public spaces are classified as Class ABC extinguishers. They are used for putting out wood and paper fires, flammable liquid fires, and electrical fires.

STEP 2: The P.A.S.S. Method of Using Fire Extinguishers

Now you have familiarized yourself with the different classification of fires and types of fire extinguisher to use, it is time to learn how to use this equipment properly.In putting out a fire, using the P.A.S.S. technique will be the easiest and reliable step in using the fire extinguisher.

step 2.1

Pull the pin. Every fire extinguisher has a pin inserted into the handle. It is a safety pin, to avoid accidental discharge. Grab the ring and pull the pin out from the side of the handle.

Step 2.2

Aim the hose at the base of the fire. Hold the lower handle lever (the carrying handle) with one hand and grab the hose or nozzle with the other hand.

Step 2.3

Squeeze the lever. In a controlled manner, squeeze the trigger to release the agent.

Step 2.4

Sweep the hose from side to side. To extinguish all the fuel, slowly sweep the hose back and forth over the base of the fire as you discharge the extinguisher. Move closer to the fire as the flames die down

STEP 3: Leave Immediately if You’re Unable to Extinguish the Fire.

The average extinguisher will have enough agent inside to go for about 10 seconds. Step back and leave instantly if the fire isn’t out and leave it to the fire department.

 

 

 

References:

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One Reply to “Steps on How To Use Fire Extinguishers | The P.A.S.S Method”

  1. Thanks for helping me understand that we must aim at the base of the fire when using it in the future. I will keep that in mind since I will be buying one for our house since we live in a wildfire-prone area. Last year, there has been one incident, and we were lucky enough that it happened far away from our house.

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