How To Use a Portable Fire Extinguisher

Using a Fire Extinguisher

A. Sound the fire alarm and call the fire department if deemed appropriate.
B. Pinpoint a safe evacuation route prior to approaching the fire. Heat, fire, and smoke should not
stand between you and your evacuation route.
C. Find the nearest Fire Extinguisher in your range.
D. Using the P.A.S.S technique (pull, aim, squeeze, sweep) discharge the extinguisher within its
effective range
1. Pull:Pull the pin
2. Aim:Aim low and point the extinguisher nozzle to the base of the fire
3. Squeeze:Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent
4. Sweep:The fire should appear to be out after you sweep the extinguisher from side to side at its
base. Watch the area. If the fire re-ignites, repeat steps 2 – 4.
NOTE: CO2 extinguishers have a plastic discharge horn that gets very cold and may damage
your skin if you make contact with it
In case the fire flames up again, back away from the extinguished fire
E. Immediately evacuate if the extinguisher is empty and the fire is not out or the fire advances past
the incipient stage.