The acronym for putting out a fire using a fire extinguisher is PASS. What does PASS stand for?
- Pull, Accuracy, Squeeze, Spread
- Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep
- Pin, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep
- Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Spread
- Pin, Angle, Squeeze, Spread
The correct answer is “Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.”
PASS: The Fire Extinguisher Acronym Explained
When using a fire extinguisher, the acronym PASS provides a simple guide to ensure the extinguisher is operated effectively and safely. It stands for:
- P: Pull the pin
- A: Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire
- S: Squeeze the handle
- S: Sweep the nozzle from side to side
This straightforward process is designed to help users respond quickly and efficiently in an emergency. Below, we break down each step of the PASS method and discuss additional considerations for using fire extinguishers in different scenarios, covering the details in about 1000 words.
P: Pull the Pin
The first step when using a fire extinguisher is to pull the safety pin, which is typically located at the top of the extinguisher near the handle. This pin is inserted to prevent accidental discharge during storage or handling. Removing it will allow you to operate the extinguisher by pressing the handle.
Key Points:
- Why it’s important: The pin locks the handle of the extinguisher, preventing accidental use. Without removing the pin, you cannot engage the handle to discharge the extinguishing agent.
- How to pull the pin correctly: Grasp the pin with your dominant hand and pull it straight out, often while twisting slightly. Some extinguishers may have a seal around the pin that will break when you pull it out, ensuring the extinguisher hasn’t been tampered with before use.
- Precaution: Ensure that you pull the pin while maintaining a firm grip on the extinguisher, but avoid squeezing the handle until you’re ready to deploy the extinguisher.
A: Aim at the Base of the Fire
The second step in PASS is to aim the nozzle, horn, or hose of the extinguisher at the base of the fire. You must direct the extinguishing agent to the base rather than the flames themselves.
Key Points:
- Why it’s important: Fires consume fuel, and the source of the fire is typically at the base where the fuel meets the oxygen. Aiming at the flames may look dramatic, but it won’t extinguish the fire effectively. To stop the fire, you must target its source.
- How to aim properly: Stand at a safe distance from the fire, usually around 6 to 10 feet away, depending on the size of the fire. Keep in mind that different extinguishers have varied ranges and you should stay close enough to target the fire effectively but not so close that you put yourself at risk.
- Common mistake: Many people, especially when panicked, tend to aim at the flames, thinking this will reduce the intensity of the fire. However, aiming at the flames alone will not extinguish the fire.
S: Squeeze the Handle
Once you’ve aimed the extinguisher at the base of the fire, the next step is to squeeze the handle, which will release the extinguishing agent. The handle is designed to control the flow of the agent from the extinguisher.
Key Points:
- Why it’s important: Squeezing the handle activates the discharge mechanism, allowing the agent inside the extinguisher to be released under pressure. The force and pressure of the extinguishing agent can vary depending on the type and size of the extinguisher, but most fire extinguishers work by using stored pressure or a manual pump to release the contents.
- How to squeeze the handle correctly: Use one hand to steady the extinguisher and the other to squeeze the handle. Apply steady and controlled pressure to avoid wasting the extinguishing agent or spraying it too quickly.
- Precaution: Be mindful of how much of the agent you are using. Many small extinguishers only have a few seconds of spray time, so it’s important to use the extinguishing agent judiciously to ensure the fire is completely out before the extinguisher runs out of material.
S: Sweep the Nozzle from Side to Side
The final step in PASS is to sweep the nozzle from side to side across the base of the fire. This motion ensures that the extinguishing agent covers the entire area of the fire, suffocating it by depriving it of fuel and oxygen.
Key Points:
- Why it’s important: Fires can spread quickly, and sweeping the extinguishing agent from side to side ensures complete coverage of the fire. This sweeping motion prevents the fire from reigniting from hot spots or remaining sources of fuel.
- How to sweep properly: Once you begin discharging the extinguisher, move the nozzle or hose back and forth over the base of the fire. Continue to sweep until the fire appears to be completely extinguished.
- Monitor the fire: After the fire seems to be out, stay vigilant and watch for any signs of re-ignition. Fires, particularly those involving certain materials, can smolder and reignite even after appearing to be fully extinguished. Keep the extinguisher handy and be prepared to apply more of the agent if necessary.
Additional Considerations When Using a Fire Extinguisher
While the PASS method is the most commonly accepted procedure for using a fire extinguisher, there are several other factors to keep in mind to ensure safety and effectiveness.
1. Know Your Fire Class
Fire extinguishers are categorized based on the type of fire they are designed to combat. The four main classes of fires are:
- Class A: Ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth.
- Class B: Flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, or grease.
- Class C: Electrical fires.
- Class D: Combustible metals.
- Class K: Cooking fires involving oils or fats (mostly in commercial kitchens).
It’s important to use the correct fire extinguisher for the type of fire you are dealing with. For example, using a water-based extinguisher on an electrical fire (Class C) can cause electrical shock.
2. Evacuation and Calling for Help
Even if you believe you can extinguish a fire using a fire extinguisher, it’s critical to have an escape plan and ensure that you have already contacted emergency services. Small fires can escalate quickly, and it’s important not to put yourself in danger by staying in a burning area for too long.
3. Regular Maintenance of Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers need to be inspected regularly to ensure they are in good working order. Check the pressure gauge, look for signs of damage or leakage, and ensure that the pin is intact and that the extinguisher is easily accessible.
Conclusion
The PASS technique — Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep — is a simple yet highly effective method for using a fire extinguisher. In emergency situations, having a basic understanding of this method can help prevent injury, minimize property damage, and even save lives. However, it’s essential to recognize that not all fires are manageable with a fire extinguisher alone, and contacting emergency services should always be a top priority.