How to Use a Fire Extinguisher Using the PASS Method

Summary

This video tutorial instructs viewers on the proper use of a fire extinguisher using the PASS method: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the lever, and Sweep from side to side. It outlines the different types of extinguishers for various fire classes and emphasizes the importance of safety, advising viewers to exit the building if the fire is too dangerous to handle. The video is aimed at keeping workplaces compliant with OSHA and NFPA standards.

Takeaways

• 🧯 **Correct Extinguisher Type**: Ensure you have the right type of fire extinguisher for the fire type: A for ordinary combustibles, B for flammable liquids, C for electrical fires, D for flammable metals, and K for cooking media.
• 🚨 **Safety First**: If you feel unsafe or unsure about putting out the fire, evacuate the building immediately.
• 📍 **Positioning**: Stand six to eight feet away from the fire when using the extinguisher.
• 🔑 **PASS Method**: Use the PASS method to operate the fire extinguisher: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep.
• ⏺️ **Pull the Pin**: To activate the extinguisher, pull the pin to release the extinguishing agent.
• 🎯 **Aim at the Base**: Direct the nozzle at the base of the fire to effectively combat the flames.
• 🔧 **Squeeze the Lever**: Squeeze the lever to discharge the extinguishing agent and release it to stop the flow.
• 🔄 **Sweep Motion**: Move the extinguisher in a sweeping motion from side to side or back and forth until the fire is extinguished.
• 🔥 **Monitor After Extinguishing**: Keep an eye on the fire to ensure it does not reignite, and be ready to repeat the PASS method if necessary.
• ⚠️ **Professional Help**: For businesses, consider professional fire and safety services to maintain OSHA compliance and adhere to NFPA standards.

Q & A

What is the PASS method for using a fire extinguisher?

The PASS method is a technique for using a fire extinguisher, which stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep. It involves pulling the pin to discharge the extinguisher, aiming the nozzle at the base of the fire, squeezing the lever to release the extinguishing agent, and sweeping the extinguisher from side to side to put out the fire.

What are the different types of fire extinguishers mentioned in the script?

The script mentions five types of fire extinguishers: Type A for ordinary combustibles like wood and paper, Type B for flammable liquids like gasoline and oil, Type C for electrical fires, Type D for flammable metals like magnesium and titanium, and Class K for cooking media such as fats, grease, and oils.

Why is it important to choose the correct type of fire extinguisher for the fire type?

Choosing the correct type of fire extinguisher is crucial because different extinguishers are designed to combat specific types of fires. Using the wrong type can be ineffective or even dangerous, as it may not extinguish the fire or could potentially make it worse.

What should you do if you don't feel you can safely put out the fire?

If you don't feel you can safely put out the fire, you should exit the building immediately and alert the fire department or other emergency services.

How far should you stand from the fire when using a fire extinguisher?

You should stand six to eight feet away from the fire when using a fire extinguisher to ensure your safety while attempting to extinguish the flames.

What does the 'P' in PASS stand for and what does it involve?

The 'P' in PASS stands for 'Pull'. It involves pulling the pin on the fire extinguisher to enable discharge of the extinguishing agent.

What is the purpose of aiming the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire?

Aiming the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire is important because this is where the fire typically finds its fuel source. By aiming at the base, you can more effectively cut off the fire's oxygen supply and extinguish it.

How do you operate the fire extinguisher during the 'Squeeze' step of PASS?

During the 'Squeeze' step of PASS, you need to squeeze the lever on the fire extinguisher to discharge the extinguishing agent towards the fire. Releasing the lever will stop the discharge.

What is the 'Sweep' step in the PASS method and how is it performed?

The 'Sweep' step involves pointing the extinguisher at the base of the fire and moving it from left to right or back and forth in a sweeping motion until the fire is completely out. This helps to ensure that the fire is fully extinguished and does not reignite.

Why is it important to continue watching the fire after it has been extinguished?

It's important to continue watching the fire after it has been extinguished to ensure that it does not reignite. Fires can sometimes smolder and then flare up again, so monitoring the area is crucial for complete safety.

What services does CQ Fire and Safety offer according to the script?

CQ Fire and Safety offers services to keep businesses OSHA compliant and up to NFPA standards, which includes a range of fire and safety needs for businesses.