How to Use a Fire Extinguisher: Don’t Panic, Just PASS
Fire can break out anywhere—at home, at work, you name it. In those first tense moments, knowing how to use a fire extinguisher can be the difference between a close call and a disaster.
Lots of people have extinguishers tucked away somewhere, but not many have actually tried using one. Just owning one isn’t enough. You need to know what to do, and you need to feel sure about it. That’s where the PASS method comes in. It’s simple, and it works.
First Things First: Stay Safe
Only try to fight a fire if it’s small, not spreading, and you’ve got a clear way out behind you. If you’re not sure, don’t risk it—get out, and call the fire department right away.
Ready to go? Do This Quick Check
Before you even pick up the extinguisher, run through this mental checklist, the “3 A’s”:
- Alarm—Did you activate the fire alarm and let everyone else know?
- Assist—Is everyone starting to evacuate?
- Attack—Is the fire still small and contained? Are you holding the right extinguisher for this type of fire?
If you’ve covered those three, you’re ready to PASS.
How PASS Works: Four Simple Steps
- PASS stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep. Here’s how it goes:
P—Pull the Pin
- This pin keeps the extinguisher from going off by accident. Hold the extinguisher upright and pull the pin straight out. Sometimes there’s a plastic seal you’ll need to break first.
A—Aim the Nozzle at the Base
- You want to hit the source of the fire, not just the flames. Get low, and aim the nozzle or hose right at the bottom of the fire. Aiming at the flames won’t do much—you need to stop it at the source.
S—Squeeze the Lever
- Now, squeeze the handles together to let out the extinguishing agent. Steady, even pressure is best—don’t just squeeze and let go. Keep it going.
S—Sweep from Side to Side
- Keep aiming at the base and move the nozzle side to side, covering the whole area. As the flames shrink, get a little closer. Don’t stop until the fire is completely out.
Watch Out for Re-Ignition
Sometimes fires come back. Stick around and keep an eye on things even after you think it’s out.
After You’ve Used the Extinguisher
Don’t touch the extinguisher right away; it’ll be really hot.
Leave the building, even if you’re sure the fire’s out. Make sure everyone is out, and wait for the fire department to say it’s safe. Get the extinguisher recharged or replaced as soon as possible.
Fire Safety in Kenya—We’ve Got Your Back
At Safety Hub Enterprises Limited, we do more than just sell KEBS-approved fire extinguishers. We help you stay ready. Here’s what we offer:
Top-quality extinguishers for any fire—Class A, B, C, and K.
Professional installation and servicing, so your equipment always works. On-site fire safety training for your team. Don’t wait for an emergency to figure this out.
Protect what matters. Get your space set up, train your people, and if you need advice, call us for a free consultation: 0111 056 220.
