Using
a fire extinguisher |
The following steps should be followed
when responding to incipient stage fire:
- Sound the fire alarm and call the fire department,
if appropriate.
- Identify a safe evacuation path before approaching
the fire. Do not allow the fire, heat, or smoke to
come between you and your evacuation path.
- Select the appropriate type
of fire extinguisher.
- Discharge the extinguisher within its effective
range using the P.A.S.S.
technique (pull, aim, squeeze, sweep).
- Back away from an extinguished fire in case it flames
up again.
- Evacuate immediately if the extinguisher is empty
and the fire is not out.
- Evacuate immediately if the fire progresses beyond
the incipient
stage.
Most fire
extinguishers operate using the following P.A.S.S. technique:
1. |
PULL...
Pull the pin. This will also
break the tamper seal. |
|
2. |
AIM...
Aim low, pointing the extinguisher
nozzle (or its horn or hose) at the base of the
fire. Note: Do not touch the plastic discharge horn on CO2 extinguishers,
it gets very cold and may damage skin. |
3. |
SQUEEZE...
Squeeze the handle to release
the extinguishing agent. |
4. |
SWEEP...
Sweep from side to side at
the base of the fire until it appears to be out.
Watch the area. If the fire re-ignites, repeat steps
2 - 4. |
|
If
you have the slightest doubt about your ability
to fight a fire....EVACUATE
IMMEDIATELY! |
|
|