Safe Use: The "P.A.S.S." Method Interactive Online Training

An early-stage fire can be terrifying, but knowing the correct, safe procedure to attempt to put it out is crucial. This comprehensive training cuts through the fear and gives you a clear, step-by-step action plan for individual fire emergency response.

We start with the foundational steps that must precede any attempt to fight a fire. Your first priorities are always to sound the fire alarm and call emergency personnel (like 9-1-1) . Crucially, you must identify a safe evacuation path—never let the fire stand between you and your exit. Once these are complete, you can select the appropriate fire extinguisher and approach the fire, making sure you are within the device’s effective range.

The heart of this course is the P.A.S.S. technique, a simple and memorable four-step process for discharging the extinguisher:

• Pull the pin : Stand several feet back, hold the extinguisher in one hand, and firmly pull the retainer pin.
• Aim at the base of the fire: Direct the nozzle or discharge hose towards the material that is actually burning, not the flames themselves.
• Squeeze the handle: Discharge the fire extinguishing material. Releasing the handle will stop the discharge.
• Sweep from side to side: Move the stream across the base of the fire as you slowly approach. This ensures all burning material is covered.

This course also emphasizes the critical decision of when to stop fighting and evacuate. If the fire progresses past the beginning ("incipient") stage, if the extinguisher is empty and the fire is still burning, or if you have even the slightest doubt about your ability to fight the fire, you must evacuate immediately. Your safety is the priority, and the procedures you learn here will buy valuable time for professional responders to arrive.

KEYWORDS: fire extinguisher safety, P.A.S.S. technique, fire emergency response, fire safety training, fire fighting, incipient fire, pull the pin, aim at base, squeeze handle, sweep side-to-side, safe evacuation, fire alarm, emergency procedures, workplace safety, fire extinguisher use, fire prevention, exit path, emergency personnel, fire discharge, fire safety compliance.

Describe the steps for safe fire emergency response * Identify a safe evacuation path before approaching a fire
Select the appropriate fire extinguisher for the fire's class
Demonstrate the P.A.S.S. technique for discharge
Determine when to evacuate rather than attempt extinguishing

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is subject to change and is for promotional and informational purposes only. Prior to acting on the information contained on this page, verify all information against the latest OSHA and applicable standards, regulations, and guidelines. Please also contact us with any questions you have related to this information. Under no circumstances will Atlantic Training, LLC be held responsible for direct, indirect, consequential, or incidental injuries or damages, or any damages or injuries whatsoever, whether resulting from contract, negligence, or other torts, related to the utilization of this information or the contents of this page. Atlantic Training retains the right to incorporate, remove, or adjust the contents on this page without prior notice.