How to Use a Portable Fire Extinguisher

What's the P. A. S. S. Word?
Many people wonder how they should use their extinguisher to put out a fire and whether they will remember how if the situation ever were to arise. Before you decide to make an effort to put out a fire make sure you have an escape route to your back. Stand six to eight feet away from the fire and follow the P A S S procedure and if the fire does not go out at once leave the area and go outside.

P	Pull the pin. This is a locking mechanism and will allow you to depress the operating lever after it is removed.
A	Aim low. Always aim the nozzle of the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
S	Squeeze the lever above the handle. This will discharge the extinguisher.
S	Sweep from side to side. Move in carefully until the flames appear to be out. If re-ignition occurs repeat the process over until flames are completely out.

Before You Begin To Fight The Fire

Make sure everyone has left, or is leaving the building.
Make sure the fire department has been called.
Make sure the fire is confined and is not spreading.
Be sure you have a clear escape route and always keep the exit to your back to prevent becoming trapped.
Be sure you have read and understand the instructions for your extinguisher before.
It is unsafe to fight a fire under any other circumstance.
Instead, leave immediately and close off the area.