How to use a Fire Extinguisher?

There is a simple way to remember how to use a fire extinguisher.

Simply follow the PASS Procedure and you will know what to do:

Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep…

• Pull out the Pin from the top of the fire extinguisher. Pulling the pin releases the locking mechanism and will allow the lever to be squeezed for you to discharge the contents.
• Aim the hose of the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire, not the flames. This is important as to stop a fire you must extinguish the fuel that is keeping the fire burning.
• Squeeze the lever slowly. This will release the extinguishing agent. Keep squeezing the handle until you have extinguished the fire. If the handle is released, the discharge will stop.
• Sweep from side to side. Using a sweeping motion, move the fire extinguisher back and forth until the fire is completely out. Operate the extinguisher from a safe distance, several feet away, and then move towards the fire once it starts to diminish.

Be sure to read the instructions on your fire extinguisher and familiarise yourself with its operating instructions - different fire extinguishers recommend operating them from different distances.