Dependable Fire Equipment Inc.
100 LeBaron Waukegan, IL 60085
Phone: 847 • 662 • 8400
Fax: 847 • 662 • 8420
E-Mail: contact@dependablefire.com
Operating a Fire Extinguisher Properly
Having a reliable and fully operational fire extinguisher on site when a fire breaks out can be a life-saver. Unfortunately, if you don’t know how to use the fire extinguisher properly, it can be completely useless, or worse, it could actually do more harm than good. That’s why it’s imperative to learn how to use a fire extinguisher correctly before disaster strikes. Below you will find a useful acronym to help you remember the steps for effectively using a fire extinguisher.
Steps for Using a Fire Extinguisher: The PASS System
Pull.
The first step is to remove the pin at the top of the fire extinguisher. If the extinguisher doesn’t have a pin, look for a lever or button instead.
Aim.
Standing approximately 6-10 feet from the fire, aim the nozzle of the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire, not at the flames.
Squeeze.
Squeeze the lever to release the water or foam (depending on what kind of fire extinguisher you’re using). Some fire extinguishers may have a button in place of a lever.
Sweep.
Use a sweeping motion to spray the extinguishing agent all along the base of the fire. Keep doing this until you no longer see flames. Once the fire is out, watch and wait to ensure that it’s not going to re-ignite.
It is highly recommended that you receive hands-on instruction from an expert before using a fire extinguisher. Dependable Fire Equipment offers on-site training to all of our clients.