How to Use a Fire Extinguisher (the PASS Method)

A fire extinguisher can stop a small fire before it spreads. But it only helps if you know when to use it, and how. Learn it now, so you're not reading the label during an emergency.

1. First: Getting Out Comes First

The fire safety experts at NFPA are clear. Your number one priority is getting everyone out safely. Only fight a fire if it's small, like a wastebasket, and not growing. Everyone else is out. The fire department is on the way. And the room isn't filling with smoke.

2. Keep Your Back To The Exit

Before you start, put your back to a clear exit, so you can get out fast if the fire grows.

3. P: Pull The Pin

Remember the word pass. P. Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and pull out the pin that locks the handle.

4. A: Aim Low

A. Aim low. Point the nozzle at the base of the fire, where the fuel is, not at the flames up top.

5. S: Squeeze

Next, S. Squeeze the handle, slowly and evenly.

6. S: Sweep

S. Sweep the nozzle from side to side, across the base of the fire, until it's out.

7. Know When To Go

If the fire doesn't go out quickly, or the room starts filling with smoke, stop and leave immediately. Getting out safely matters more than anything in the house.

8. For Your Home

For home, pick a multi purpose extinguisher with a testing lab label, that's light enough for you to handle. Keep it near an exit, read its instructions today, and ask your local fire department about hands on training.