Fire Extinguisher Training: How to Use a Fire Extinguisher Correctly
Fire Extinguisher Training: How to Use a Fire Extinguisher Correctly
Having a fire extinguisher in your home or workplace is useless if no one knows how to use it. In the stress of a real fire, people often freeze or use the extinguisher incorrectly. Proper training ensures that you can operate a fire extinguisher effectively and safely. This guide provides step-by-step fire extinguisher training that every adult should know.
The PASS Technique: Your Four-Step Guide
Fire extinguisher operation is summarized by the simple acronym PASS. P stands for Pull the pin. A stands for Aim at the base of the fire. S stands for Squeeze the handle. S stands for Sweep from side to side. Memorize this sequence and practice it mentally so you can execute it automatically in an emergency. Each step is equally important, and skipping any step can make the extinguisher ineffective.
Step 1: Pull the Pin - The pin at the top of the extinguisher prevents accidental discharge. Pull it straight out with a twisting motion if needed. This breaks the tamper seal and allows the handle to be squeezed. If the pin is difficult to pull, twist it back and forth while pulling. Some extinguishers have a ring or loop for easier grip.
Step 2: Aim at the Base - Hold the extinguisher nozzle or hose in your hand and aim at the base of the fire, not at the flames. Aiming at the flames is a common mistake. The extinguishing agent needs to reach the fuel that is burning to smother or cool the fire. Aiming at the flames wastes the extinguishing agent and fails to put out the fire.
Step 3: Squeeze the Handle - Squeeze the handle or lever to discharge the extinguishing agent. Release the handle to stop the discharge. Squeeze fully and steadily to maintain a continuous stream of extinguishing agent. Some extinguishers have a locking button that must be pressed before squeezing.
Step 4: Sweep Side to Side - Sweep the nozzle or hose from side to side, covering the entire base of the fire with the extinguishing agent. Continue sweeping until the flames are completely extinguished. If the fire re-ignites, repeat the process. Watch for hot spots after the flames are out.
Before You Fight a Fire: The RACE Protocol
Before deciding to fight a fire, remember the RACE protocol. R stands for Rescue anyone in immediate danger. A stands for Alarm - activate the fire alarm and alert others. C stands for Confine - close doors and windows to contain the fire. E stands for Extinguish or Evacuate - attempt to extinguish the fire if it is small and contained, or evacuate if it is large or spreading. Only attempt to fight a fire if the fire is small and contained (like a wastebasket fire), you have a clear escape route behind you, you have the right extinguisher and know how to use it, and the fire is not spreading rapidly. If any of these conditions are not met, evacuate immediately and call the fire department.
When NOT to Fight a Fire
There are situations where you should never attempt to fight a fire yourself. If the fire is large or spreading beyond its point of origin, evacuate immediately. If you are not sure what is burning or what type of extinguisher to use, do not take the risk. If the room is filling with smoke, visibility is reduced, or the smoke is making it hard to breathe, get out. If you cannot access a clear escape route behind you, do not trap yourself. If the fire involves gas cylinders, flammable liquids in large quantities, or hazardous materials, leave it to professionals. If more than 5 seconds of extinguisher discharge does not begin to reduce the fire, stop and evacuate. Your life is more valuable than any property. Never risk your safety to fight a fire that professional firefighters should handle.
Operating Different Types of Extinguishers
While the PASS technique applies to most extinguishers, there are some differences between types. For dry chemical powder extinguishers, after pulling the pin, give the extinguisher a quick shake or tap to settle the powder. This helps the powder flow freely through the nozzle. For CO2 extinguishers, hold the horn by the insulated handle, not by the horn itself. The horn becomes extremely cold during discharge (around -78 degrees Celsius) and can cause frostbite. CO2 extinguishers have a limited discharge time of 8-10 seconds, so use it efficiently. For water extinguishers, aim the stream at the base of the fire. Water extinguishers have a relatively long discharge range of 3-5 meters. For foam extinguishers, aim the foam stream at the back wall of the fire or at the edge of the burning liquid to allow the foam to flow across the surface. For wet chemical extinguishers, apply the agent in a slow, gentle stream to avoid splashing the hot oil. Follow the specific instructions on the extinguisher label for best results.
Practical Training Tips
Reading about fire extinguisher use is not enough. Hands-on practice is essential for building muscle memory and confidence. Consider attending a fire extinguisher training session offered by Oust Fire or your local fire department. During practical training, you get to discharge a real extinguisher on a controlled fire, experiencing the recoil, noise, and weight of the extinguisher. If formal training is not available, practice the PASS technique with a training extinguisher or an empty one. Simulate the steps while saying each step aloud. Familiarize yourself with the extinguisher location in your home and workplace. Check the pressure gauge and inspect the extinguisher monthly so you are familiar with its condition. Teach all family members or employees how to use the extinguisher. Make fire extinguisher training a regular part of your safety routine.
After Using an Extinguisher
After you use a fire extinguisher, even for a few seconds, take these steps. Never put a used extinguisher back on the wall. It is no longer reliable. Have the extinguisher professionally serviced or replaced immediately. Even if the extinguisher still has some pressure, the extinguishing agent inside may have settled or degraded. Clean up any residue left by the extinguisher. Dry powder residue can be corrosive and should be vacuumed or wiped up promptly. Report the incident to the relevant authorities. Document what happened for insurance and safety records. Restock your fire protection by purchasing a replacement extinguisher. Do not leave your home or business unprotected while the used extinguisher is being serviced.
Fire extinguisher training is a life-saving skill that every adult should possess. Take the time to learn the PASS technique, understand when to fight and when to evacuate, and get hands-on practice. Oust Fire offers fire extinguisher training sessions for individuals, families, housing societies, and businesses in Pune and across India.
Also read: Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Uses and Fire Extinguisher Maintenance Guide.
