Remember P.A.S.S.
Keep your back to an unobstructed exit and stand six (6) to eight (8) feet
away from the fire. Follow the four-step P.A.S.S. procedure.
* Pull the pin:
This unlocks the operating lever and allows you to discharge the extinguisher.
*See note below.
* Aim low: Point
the extinguisher nozzle (or end of hose) at the base of the fire, not the
flames!
* Squeeze the
handle: This discharges the extinguishing agent. Releasing the handle will
stop the discharge.
* Sweep from side
to side: Moving carefully toward the fire, keep the extinguisher aimed at
the base of the fire and sweep rapidly back and forth until the flames appear
to be out. Watch the fire area. Prepare to get or call for another portable
fire extinguisher if one is nearby. If the fire re-ignites, repeat the process.
* Never use a strong electricians-type plastic seal to secure a pull pin on the extinguisher. It is very important to be able to pull the pin out and in the state of Florida the use of "tamper indicators", which is what we in the business call the seal, is actually regulated to be no more than twelve pounds of pull to break.
