What Does PASS Stand For in Fire Safety? Simple Guide to Using Extinguishers

What Does PASS Stand For in Fire Safety?

In fire safety, PASS is most commonly known as a simple step-by-step method for using a fire extinguisher correctly. It stands for:

P – Pull
A – Aim
S – Squeeze
S – Sweep

This easy-to-remember acronym helps people stay calm and effective when tackling a small, controllable fire. PASS is taught in most fire safety courses and is a core part of workplace and home fire safety training.

PASS is also used in firefighting to describe a Personal Alert Safety System – a life-saving device worn by firefighters that sounds an alarm if they become motionless or distressed. Both meanings are rooted in keeping people safe from fire.

The PASS Technique for Fire Extinguishers

Pull

Pull the safety pin from the extinguisher handle.
The pin stops the extinguisher from being discharged accidentally. Grip it firmly and pull it straight out. Some units have a small plastic tamper seal that will snap when the pin is removed.

Aim

Aim the nozzle, horn, or hose at the base of the fire, not the flames themselves.
The fuel source is at the bottom; directing the agent there is what actually puts the fire out. Stand roughly 6–8 feet away (or as advised on the label) so you are close enough to be effective but far enough to stay safe.

Squeeze

Squeeze the handles together slowly and steadily.
Apply even pressure rather than quick bursts. This gives you more control over the discharge and helps you avoid wasting the extinguishing agent.

Keep both hands on the extinguisher where possible – one supporting the base and one on the handle – to maintain stability.

Sweep

Sweep the nozzle from side to side across the base of the fire.
Move in a controlled, side-to-side motion until the flames appear to be out. Continue sweeping for a few seconds after the fire seems extinguished to ensure all hot spots are cooled.

If the fire begins to grow again, resume sweeping at the base or evacuate immediately if it is no longer safe to stay.

Using PASS with Different Fire Extinguishers

The PASS sequence stays the same, but how the extinguisher behaves can vary by type.

Water Extinguishers (Class A – solids like wood, paper, textiles)

• Best for ordinary combustibles.
• Use PASS as normal.
• Never use on electrical, flammable liquid, or cooking oil fires.

Foam Extinguishers (Class A and B – solids and flammable liquids)

• Foam forms a blanket over the fuel.
• Use a gentler sweeping motion so you don’t disturb the foam layer.
• Particularly useful for small flammable liquid spills on solid surfaces.

CO₂ Extinguishers (Class B and electrical fires)

• Discharge at high pressure and become very cold.
• Always hold the horn by the insulated handle, not the metal section, to avoid frostbite.
• CO₂ can quickly displace oxygen in confined spaces – use with care and evacuate if visibility or breathing becomes difficult.

Dry Powder Extinguishers (multi-purpose)

• Effective on many fire classes, but create heavy dust clouds.
• Be prepared for reduced visibility when using PASS.
• After use, the area may be messy and residue can affect equipment and air quality.

Wet Chemical Extinguishers (Class F – cooking oils and fats)

• Designed specifically for deep fat fryers and cooking oils.
• The agent creates a cooling, soapy layer over hot oil.
• Apply in a slow, controlled manner, often a little closer to the fire than with other types (follow the label instructions).
• Do not use standard water or foam extinguishers on hot oil fires – they can cause the burning oil to splatter and spread.

Best Practice When Using PASS

• Only tackle small fires that are still in the early stages and smaller than you are.
• Always make sure you have a clear escape route behind you.
• Stand with your back to the exit so you can retreat without turning away from the fire.
• Quickly check the extinguisher’s pressure gauge, hose, and pin before use.
• Call the fire and rescue service as soon as possible, even if you believe the fire is out – fires can reignite.
• For electrical fires, isolate the power supply if it is safe to do so before using the extinguisher.
• If the fire grows, fills the room with smoke, or you feel unsafe at any point, evacuate immediately.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with PASS

• Aiming at the flames instead of the base – this looks dramatic but doesn’t put the fire out effectively.
• Standing too close, which can push the burning material around or expose you to more heat.
• Letting go of the handle too early, stopping the flow of extinguishing agent before the fire is fully out.
• Sweeping too narrowly, leaving uncooled fuel that can reignite.
• Using the wrong type of extinguisher (for example, water on oil or live electrics), which can worsen the situation.
• Panicking and forgetting the sequence – training and practice are key to building confidence.

PASS for Firefighters: Personal Alert Safety System

In professional firefighting, PASS also stands for Personal Alert Safety System – a separate but equally important fire safety meaning.

A PASS device is a small electronic unit worn by firefighters, usually attached to their breathing apparatus or harness. It is designed to signal when a firefighter may be in trouble.

Key features include:

• Motion sensors: If a firefighter remains still for a set period (often around 30 seconds), the device begins to emit a loud pre-alarm.
• Full distress alarm: If no movement resumes, the pre-alarm escalates to a continuous, high-volume alarm to alert nearby crew members.
• Manual activation: Firefighters can activate the alarm themselves if they become trapped, injured, or disorientated.
• High-decibel output: The sound is designed to cut through noise, smoke, and confusion in a burning building.

These devices are a critical part of modern firefighter PPE, helping crews locate colleagues quickly when visibility is poor and conditions are life-threatening.

Frequently Asked Questions about PASS in Fire Safety

What does PASS stand for in fire safety?

In fire extinguisher use, PASS stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep – the four basic steps for operating most portable extinguishers safely and effectively.

In firefighting PPE, PASS can also mean Personal Alert Safety System, an electronic alarm device that helps locate firefighters in distress.

Is PASS used for every type of extinguisher?

The PASS sequence applies to most portable extinguishers, but you must still choose the correct type for the class of fire (e.g. water for Class A, CO₂ for electrical, wet chemical for Class F). Always follow the instructions printed on the extinguisher.

Should everyone learn the PASS technique?

Yes. Anyone who may need to use a fire extinguisher at work or at home should be familiar with PASS. Combined with proper training and regular fire drills, it can significantly improve the chances of safely controlling a small fire before it escalates.

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