In fire safety training, what does the acronym PASS stand for in the context of using an extinguisher?

The acronym PASS in fire safety training is an essential guideline for the proper use of a fire extinguisher. It stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep.

When using a fire extinguisher, the first step is to pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher. This pin prevents accidental discharge and must be removed before any action can be taken. Next, aiming the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire is crucial; this is where the flame is originating, and it allows the extinguishing agent to be most effective.

The third step, squeezing the handle, activates the extinguisher and begins the flow of the extinguishing agent. Finally, the sweep motion involves moving the nozzle side to side at the base of the fire until it is completely extinguished. This method ensures that the fire is tackled efficiently and minimizes the risk of re-ignition.

Understanding and following these steps can significantly increase the chances of successfully controlling a small fire and ensuring safety.