PASS It On: How to Use a Fire Extinguisher in 4 Simple Steps
We know it’s important to stay calm in an emergency. But no matter how calm you are, if you discover a fire in your workplace, you won’t have time to find instructions or work out complicated procedures. And that’s where the PASS method comes in.
PASS is an easy-to-remember four-step method that ensures you use a fire extinguisher effectively. The acronym stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.
In this blog, we run through the PASS steps and explore when to use them. By the end of it, you’ll have the confidence to tackle small fires confidently and competently – and to know when to evacuate instead.
Before You Use Any Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers are effective in putting out smaller, contained fires. You should only attempt to fight a fire if:
- The fire is small (no larger than a waste bin)
- You have the correct type of extinguisher
- The alarm has been raised
- You have a clear escape route
- The room isn’t filling with smoke.
You should evacuate immediately if:
- You don’t feel safe
- Smoke is filling the room
- The fire is large and/or spreading
- You don’t have a clear escape route, or it is threatened.
Critical First Steps
Before you lay a single finger on the fire extinguisher, make sure someone has raised the fire alarm and called 999.
The PASS Method Explained
The PASS method consists of four super-simple steps. This makes it easy to remember.
1. P – PULL the Pin
You can find the pin at the top of the extinguisher. It is usually secured by a tamper seal. Pull it firmly – this breaks the seal and releases the locking mechanism.
Why It Matters
Without removing the pin, the extinguisher is unusable. It won’t discharge.
Don’t remove the pin until you’re sure it’s safe to use the extinguisher.
Top Tip
When you do a routine equipment check, make sure the pin isn’t corroded or stuck and that the tamper seal is intact.
2. A – AIM at the Base of the Fire
The next step of PASS is to Aim.
Angle the nozzle or hose of the extinguisher to the base of the fire. Not at the flames. The base is where the fuel burns, and that’s your target.
Keep a safe distance – 2-3 metres back from the fire – as you get ready for the next step.
Why It Matters
Fires burn upwards from their fuel source. The fuel source is the area that needs to be put out.
Critical Positioning
How you’re standing is important.
- Keep your back to the exit
- Never turn your back on the fire
- Stay low if there’s smoke
- Maintain a safe distance.
3. S – SQUEEZE the Handle
The third step of the PASS method talks about discharging the extinguisher. And to do that, you must Squeeze.
To release the extinguishing agent, firmly squeeze the handle or lever and maintain a steady pressure.
Why It Matters
Squeeze the handle or lever to activate the mechanism that discharges the agent. Be prepared for the pressure, the noise – especially with CO2 extinguishers – and the possible recoil. (Fire extinguisher training provides candidates with the opportunity to experience this safely).
Effective Technique
- Hold it firmly (with both hands – one on the handle and one guiding the nozzle direction)
- Keep steady pressure (there’s no need to pump).
4. S – SWEEP from Side to Side
Using a sweeping motion, steadily move the spray back and forth across the base of the fire. Best practice is to start at the edge closest to you, work across and then work back again. Continue with this process until the fire is extinguished.
Why It Matters
Sweeping in a controlled manner covers the entire fire area evenly. This prevents the fire from reigniting at the edges.
Remember: work slowly and deliberately. Don’t spray wildly in a panic.
The Technique
- Cover the full width of the fire
- Work from the nearest edge towards the back
- Keep aiming at the base of the fire, not the flames
- Watch for hotspots.
Important to Know
Most portable extinguishers only discharge for 10-20 seconds. Use your time wisely.
Using the Right Fire Extinguisher
The PASS method works for all types of extinguishers. But matching the right type of extinguisher to the fire is crucial.
Here’s a reminder of what’s what:
- Water (Red): For class A fires (paper, wood, textiles). Never use on electrical or oil fires
- Foam (Cream): For class A and B fires (flammable liquids). Not for deep fat fryers or electrical
- CO2 (Black): For electrical and class B fires. Safe for computers and machinery. Can cause frostbite – don’t touch the horn
- Powder (Blue): This one is multi-purpose and can be used for fires of classes A, B, and C. Reduces visibility, may damage equipment
- Wet Chemical (Yellow): For class F fires (cooking oils/fats). Designed specifically for deep fat fryers.
Using the wrong type of extinguisher can make a situation worse. Fast. For example, adding water to an oil-based fire can cause explosive splashing and rapid flame spread.
After Using the Extinguisher
So what now? You’ve taken action and discharged the fire extinguisher. What happens next is important.
If The Fire Goes Out
- Watch the area closely for 5 minutes, if it is safe to do so, in case the fire reignites
- Ventilate the area
- Report the incident
- Replace or recharge the extinguisher immediately.
If The Fire DOESN’T Go Out
If the fire continues to burn or spread:
- Leave the area immediately
- Close doors behind you
- Evacuate the building
- Wait for the fire service and follow their guidance.
Remember: Never return for belongings or re-enter the building once you’ve evacuated.
Even small fires that do little damage are a warning sign. They mean that your current fire safety plan needs a check-up.
Take time after the incident to investigate what happened, review your fire prevention equipment and procedures, and learn from it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the PASS method front of mind, certain errors can put you at risk when trying to put out a fire. When using a fire extinguisher, avoid:
- Aiming at flames instead of the base
- Getting too close (maintain 2-3m distance)
- Blocking your exit route
- Fighting fires that are too large
- Using the wrong extinguisher type
- Using expired or damaged extinguishers
- Turning your back on the fire
Know Your Limits
Even a perfected PASS technique won’t help you to extinguish a fire that’s too large. Knowing when to stop and evacuate the area is an integral part of fire safety.
Don’t Pass Up A Learning Opportunity
Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep. These four simple steps can save lives and property. But it’s not just the equipment that’s important; proper training helps individuals become competent, confident, and prepared in the face of a fire.
Envesca offers Level 1 and Level 2 Fire Safety Training, both of which include a practical fire extinguisher experience. Participating in this hands-on part of the training ensures real confidence is built in using fire extinguishing equipment safely and effectively.
Don’t wait for an emergency to find out that your team doesn’t know what to do. Get in touch with Envesca today and book your fire safety training. And in the meantime, why not check out our Ultimate Fire Safety Checklist?
The Ultimate Fire Safety Checklist
If you’ve got a question or query, please contact our super friendly team, they will be delighted to help you!
Simply get in touch via phone or email.
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Training Available
Envesca offer a number of different training courses, which offer advice and guidance on these topics.
Highfield Level 1 Award in Fire Safety
This half-day Level 1 Fire Safety Awareness course is ideal for all staff, particularly new starters, where a basic knowledge of fire safety is needed.Highfield Level 2 Award in Risk Assessment
This one-day Level 2 Risk Assessment course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to carry out risk assessments.Highfield Level 2 Award in Fire Safety
This one-day Level 2 Fire Safety (Fire Marshal) course will give you the skills, knowledge and confidence to manage fire safety in your workplace.
Qualsafe Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work
This three-day course will provide you with the knowledge and skills required to give basic life support, diagnose and treat a wide range of injuries or illnesses.Share this article with your social Community.
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