How To Use A Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers are essential first-response fire safety equipment that every workplace and residence should have on site. Fire Guard offers a comprehensive range of fire extinguishers and safety hardware for homeowners and commercial businesses in Singapore. When an emergency strikes, an accessible, well-maintained extinguisher is your frontline defense.
While operating an extinguisher is straightforward, proper technique is vital under stress. Here is the step-by-step procedure to follow using the standard P.A.S.S. method.
Also view our Fire Safety Brochure for illustration.
How to Use a Fire Extinguisher: The P.A.S.S. Method
Even though operating instructions are printed on the cylinder label, an active fire is not the time to read them for the first time. When responding to a small, contained fire, remember P.A.S.S.:
1st Step: Pull The Safety Pin
Keep the extinguisher upright. Pull the ring pin to break the tamper seal and unlock the operating lever. (The pin prevents accidental discharge while the unit is stored or transported).
2nd Step: Aim Low at the Base of the Firerce
Hold the hose or nozzle firmly and aim low, directly at the base of the fire (the burning fuel), rather than at the flames leaping in the air.
3rd Step: Squeeze The Handle
Squeeze the top handle down smoothly to discharge the extinguishing agent. Releasing the handle stops the flow, allowing you to reposition if necessary.
4th Step: Sweep from Side to Side
Using a controlled sweeping motion, direct the discharge across the base of the fire until the flames are completely smothered. Maintain a safe standoff distance (approximately 2 to 3 meters), and watch the area carefully in case the fire flares back up.
Choosing the Right Extinguisher
Always check the label on the cylinder before deploying an extinguisher:
AB Dry Powder: The most versatile all-round choice for homes, offices, and vehicles. Highly effective on Class A (paper, wood, fabric), Class B (flammable liquids), and safe for fires involving energized electrical equipment.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Ideal for server rooms, data centers, and sensitive electronics. It leaves zero messy chemical residue, though it should be used in well-ventilated areas or paired with an immediate exit plan.
Safety Reminder: Only attempt to fight a fire in its incipient (early) stage. If the fire spreads rapidly, produces heavy smoke, or blocks your exit route, evacuate immediately, close doors behind you to contain the smoke, and call 995 for SCDF emergency assistance.