Do you know how to PASS with a fire extinguisher? “PASS” is an acronym for the steps in using a fire extinguisher. The P stands for “Pull the pin.” The A stands for “Aim the wand/hose at the base of the fire.” The S stands for “Squeeze the handle.” The last S stands for “Sweep at the base of the fire.”
You also must have the correct extinguisher for the material on fire. The most common one recommended for purchase is an ABC extinguisher. An ABC extinguisher can be used on class A, B, & C fires. Class A fires are ordinary combustibles such as paper, wood, cardboard, furniture, carpeting, clothing, etc. Class B fires are ignitable liquids such as gasoline, diesel fuel, motor oil, acetone, alcohol, kerosene, etc. Class C fires are types of A or B that may be electrically energized. Using this type of extinguisher will not allow you to be shocked when using it. There are other types of extinguishers as well but they are used in specific industry.
The National Fire Protection Agency recommends only adults who know how to operate portable fire extinguishers should use them. Children should not use them.
Fire extinguishers should only be used on fires that are incipient stage (beginning). If a fire is taller than you or spreading out across a ceiling, it is time to escape. You do not have time to use an extinguisher! If you are an adult and you discover a fire in beginning stages, you should use the fire extinguisher PRIOR to calling 911. Use the whole extinguisher and get out of the building closing the door behind you and call 911. If there are two people, one person should use the fire extinguisher as the other is calling 911 as they escape. Also remember to get out and stay out. Don’t go back in for anything! Closing the door behind you will reduce oxygen flow and help to control the fire. Even if you think the fire is out, call the fire department to verify the fire is out with a thermal imaging camera.
Be Fire Safe!
Scott Carriveau