How to Operate a
Fire Extinguisher

A simple way to remember the steps to operating a fire extinguisher is to remember - P.A.S.S.

P Pull the pin.
   
A Aim the nozzle at or slightly in front of the base of the fire.
   
S Squeeze the handle.
   
S Sweep from side to side.

Another thing to think about is that not all fires are fought with the same types of fire extinguishers.  The different types are:

Class A Used to extinguish fires involving paper, wood, textiles and plastics.
   
Class B Used to extinguish fires involving flammable liquids, such as grease, oil or gasoline.
   
Class C Used to extinguish fires involving electrical equipment.
   
Class D Used to extinguish fires involving combustible metals.

Page created on March 2, 2003, Matthew R. Eisley.  Page last updated on September 03, 2004.