In a fire, seconds matter — and knowing how to use a fire extinguisher correctly can stop a small fire before it spreads. The globally recognised technique is easy to remember with the acronym PASS: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep. This short guide walks through the PASS method step by step, and — just as importantly — helps you decide when to fight a fire and when to get out.
Before You Act: Is It Safe to Fight the Fire?
Only attempt to use an extinguisher if all of these are true: the fire is small and contained, you have the right type of extinguisher, you have a clear escape route behind you, and the room isn't filling with smoke. If any of these fail — raise the alarm, evacuate, and call the fire brigade (dial 101 in India). Never let a fire come between you and your exit.
The PASS Method — Step by Step
Stand about 2–3 metres back from the fire and remember PASS:
- P — Pull the safety pin. This breaks the tamper seal and lets you operate the lever.
- A — Aim the nozzle low, at the base of the fire — not the flames. The fuel is at the base.
- S — Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly to discharge the agent.
- S — Sweep the nozzle from side to side across the base of the fire until it's out.
Use the Right Extinguisher for the Fire
Using the wrong type can make a fire worse — especially with electrical or oil fires. In short:
- ABC dry powder — most common; works on Class A, B and C fires.
- CO₂ — best for electrical equipment; leaves no residue.
- Foam — for flammable liquids (Class B).
- Wet chemical (Class K) — for cooking-oil fires in kitchens.
- Never use water or foam on live electrical or cooking-oil fires.
Not sure which you have? See our types of fire extinguishers guide and the ABC vs CO₂ comparison.
After Using an Extinguisher
Even a partly-used extinguisher must be recharged — it will not have full pressure for the next emergency. Arrange refilling straight away and don't put a used unit back on the wall as if it's ready.
Train Your Team
Reading about PASS helps, but hands-on practice builds confidence. Discreet Fire and Safety Solutions runs on-site fire safety training and live extinguisher drills with certificates for offices, schools and societies across Delhi NCR — so your people can act correctly under pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does PASS stand for?
PASS stands for Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the lever, and Sweep from side to side — the standard technique for using a fire extinguisher.
Where do you aim a fire extinguisher?
Always aim at the base of the fire, not the flames, because the fuel burning is at the base. Sweep across the base until the fire is out.
When should you NOT use a fire extinguisher?
Don't fight a fire if it's spreading fast, the room is filling with smoke, you don't have the right extinguisher, or your escape route is blocked. Evacuate and call the fire brigade (101).
Do I need to refill an extinguisher after a small use?
Yes. Any discharge lowers the pressure, so the extinguisher must be recharged to be reliable for the next emergency.