When it Comes to Portable Fire Extinguishers Remember “PASS”

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Portable fire extinguishers can be life and property saving tools when used correctly. In order to operate an extinguisher, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests remembering the word PASS:

Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism. There’s usually a thin plastic tamper seal holding this pin in place, and it easily breaks when you pull out the pin.

Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire. You must direct the extinguishing media towards the material that is actually burning so it can extinguish the flame

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly. An extra word of caution; if you are using a CO2 extinguisher, avoid touching the horn-shaped discharge nozzle, as it can cause frostbite

Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side across the base of the fire as you approach, to make sure the extinguishing media completely covers the burning material and puts out the fire.

Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with them before a fire breaks out. Remember, extinguishers do have limitations. It is also important to ensure you have the correct type of extinguisher for your facility. To find more information on choosing the appropriate class of extinguisher, please visit the NFPA website at nfpa.org.

Additional Portable Fire Extinguisher Training Resources:

• https://www.oshatraining.com/portable-fire-extinguisher-training.php
• https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Staying-safe/Safety-equipment/Fire-extinguishers
• https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/extinguishers.html

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