A fire can double in size in less than a minute. Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher correctly can help stop a small fire before it becomes a life-threatening emergency.
Whether you're at work, on a job site, or at home, understanding the PASS method is one of the most important fire safety skills you can learn. At State Fire, we provide hands-on fire extinguisher training that gives employees the confidence to respond quickly and safely when every second counts.
Watch: How to Use the PASS Method
We've created a short instructional video demonstrating the PASS method in action.
Before You Use a Fire Extinguisher
Portable fire extinguishers are designed for small, contained fires—often called "incipient-stage" fires. Before attempting to fight a fire, make sure:
- The fire is small and contained.
- You have a clear escape route behind you.
- The correct type of fire extinguisher is available.
- The fire department has been called or someone is calling 911.
- The area is not filling with smoke.
If the fire is spreading rapidly, producing heavy smoke, or blocking your exit, evacuate immediately and leave firefighting to emergency responders.
How to Use a Fire Extinguisher with the PASS Method
The easiest way to remember how to operate a fire extinguisher is with the acronym PASS.
P — Pull the Pin
Pull the safety pin at the top of the extinguisher. This breaks the tamper seal and allows the extinguisher to discharge.
A — Aim at the Base of the Fire
Point the nozzle or hose at the base of the flames, not at the smoke or the tops of the flames. Targeting the fuel source is what extinguishes the fire.
S — Squeeze the Handle
Firmly squeeze the handles together to release the extinguishing agent. Release the handle to stop the discharge if needed.
S — Sweep Side to Side
Using a controlled sweeping motion, move the nozzle from side to side across the base of the fire until it appears to be completely extinguished. Continue watching the area in case the fire reignites.
Choose the Right Fire Extinguisher
Not every extinguisher is designed for every type of fire. Using the wrong extinguisher can make the situation worse.
The most common fire extinguisher found in offices, commercial buildings, and many industrial facilities is the ABC dry chemical extinguisher, which is effective on:
- Class A: Ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, and cloth
- Class B: Flammable liquids like gasoline, oil, paint, and solvents
- Class C: Energized electrical equipment
Special hazards may require different extinguishers, including Class D for combustible metals or Class K for commercial cooking equipment. Always verify that you're using the correct extinguisher for the type of fire.
Practice Before an Emergency
During an emergency is not the time to learn how to use a fire extinguisher. Hands-on training helps employees become familiar with extinguisher operation, recognize when it is safe to fight a fire, and respond with confidence.
State Fire provides professional fire extinguisher training for commercial, industrial, construction, mining, municipal, and healthcare organizations. Our experienced instructors combine classroom instruction with live-fire exercises so participants can safely practice the PASS method in a controlled environment.
Fire Safety Starts with Training
A fire extinguisher is only effective if people know how to use it. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and ongoing employee training are essential parts of any workplace fire protection program.
Whether you're updating your company's fire safety program or training new employees, State Fire can help you build a safer workplace with expert fire protection services and hands-on safety training.
Need fire extinguisher training for your team? Contact State Fire to learn more about our fire extinguisher inspections, maintenance, and professional workplace safety training programs.