How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Although there are a lot of different types of fire extinguishers on the market, most of them operate in the same manner. Please read your owner’s manual to make sure that you understand how to use your fire extinguisher. Remembering the following acronym will help you when you need to use a fire extinguisher.

P A S S

• P ull the pin at the top of the fire extinguisher. The pin releases a locking mechanism and will allow you to discharge the extinguisher.
• A im at the base of the fire, not the flames. This is important - in order to put out the fire, you must extinguish the fuel.
• S queeze the lever slowly. This will release the extinguishing agent in the extinguisher. If the handle is released, the discharge will stop.
• S weep from side to side. Using a sweeping motion, move the fire extinguisher back and forth until the fire is completely out. Aim at the base of the fire and move towards the fire once it starts to diminish.