What does P.A.S.S. stand for in fire extinguisher use?

• A. Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep
• B. Push, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep
• C. Pull, Activate, Squeeze, Sweep
• D. Pull, Aim, Shoot, Sweep

Answer: (A)

P.A.S.S. is the four-step method to operate a portable fire extinguisher. Pull the pin to break the tamper seal and unlock the extinguisher. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, where the fuel source is. Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent. Sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the flames until the fire is out or help arrives. This sequence matters because pulling the pin enables discharge, aiming at the base targets the fire’s fuel, squeezing releases the agent, and sweeping ensures the fuel is covered and helps prevent re-ignition. If the fire is too large or you can’t approach safely, evacuate and call for help.

The other options don’t fit: pushing instead of pulling wouldn’t release the extinguisher, activating instead of squeezing doesn’t describe the lever action needed to release the agent, and shooting instead of sweeping describes a jet rather than a controlled sweep at the base, which is less effective.