LAB SAFETY VIDEO
LAB EQUIPMENT TERMS & USES
P A S S
Pull the Pin at the top of the extinguisher. The pin releases a locking mechanism and will allow you to discharge the extinguisher.
Aim at the base of the fire, not the flames. This is important - in order to put out the fire, you must extinguish the fuel.
Squeeze the lever slowly. This will release the extinguishing agent in the extinguisher. If the handle is released, the discharge will stop.
Sweep from side to side. Using a sweeping motion, move the fire extinguisher back and forth until the fire is completely out. Operate the extinguisher from a safe distance, several feet away, and then move towards the fire once it starts to diminish. Be sure to read the instructions on your fire extinguisher - different fire extinguishers recommend operating them from different distances.
Remember: Aim at the base of the fire, not at the flames!!!!
How To Use a Fire Extinguisher
PASS = Pull, Aim, Squeeze & Sweep with a Fire Extinguisher
It's easy to remember how to use a fire extinguisher if you can remember the acronym PASS, which stands for Pull, Aim,Squeeze, and Sweep.  |
Pull the pin. This will allow you to discharge the extinguisher.
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Aim at the base of the fire. If you aim at the flames (which is frequently the temptation), the extinguishing agent will fly right through and do no good. You want to hit the fuel.
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Squeeze the top handle or lever.
This depresses a button that releases the pressurized extinguishing agent in the extinguisher. |
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Sweep from side to side
until the fire is completely out. Start using the extinguisher from a safe distance away, then move forward. Once the fire is out, keep an eye on the area in case it re-ignites. |