Every Second Counts in an Emergency

During a fire outbreak, panic is your biggest enemy. Having fire extinguishers installed is useless if employees or family members do not know how to operate them. Fortunately, modern portable fire extinguishers are designed for effortless operation using the globally recognized P.A.S.S. protocol.

The 4 Steps of the P.A.S.S. Technique

• P - Pull the Pin: Pull the safety pin located at the top of the extinguisher handle. This breaks the tamper-evident inspection seal and unlocks the squeeze mechanism.
• A - Aim at the Base: Stand approximately 6 to 8 feet away from the flames. Aim the nozzle or discharge horn directly at the base of the fire, where the fuel source is burning, not at the rising flames or smoke.
• S - Squeeze the Lever: Squeeze the top operating lever slowly and evenly to discharge the extinguishing agent. Releasing the lever will halt the discharge.
• S - Sweep from Side to Side: Move the nozzle in a continuous sweeping motion from left to right across the base of the fire until the flames are completely extinguished. Watch closely for any rekindling.

Crucial Safety Rules Before Operating

• Ensure everyone has evacuated or is moving toward the emergency exit.
• Always keep your back facing an unobstructed exit path so you can safely escape if the fire spreads.
• Check the pressure gauge beforehand: ensure the needle is positioned firmly in the green operable zone.

Conduct Regular Fire Drills

Aurelius Groups recommends that organizations organize periodic mock fire drills and hands-on staff training. Equipping your workforce with hands-on practice transforms panic into prompt, life-saving action.