In the PASS method for aiming fire extinguishers, the 'P' stands for:

In the PASS method for aiming fire extinguishers, the 'P' stands for:

• A. Pull the pin
• B. Push the handle
• C. Press the lever
• D. Point the nozzle

Answer: (A)

The main thing being tested is the sequence used to operate a fire extinguisher in an emergency. The first step in PASS is to pull the pin. The pin keeps the extinguisher from discharging accidentally by locking the lever and tamper seal. Removing it unlocks the mechanism so you can actually discharge the agent when you squeeze the lever. So the correct action is to pull the pin. After pulling the pin, you would aim at the base of the fire, then squeeze or push the lever to release the agent, and sweep from side to side to cover the area. The other actions listed—pushing the handle, pressing the lever, or pointing the nozzle—are done after the pin has been pulled.

The main thing being tested is the sequence used to operate a fire extinguisher in an emergency. The first step in PASS is to pull the pin. The pin keeps the extinguisher from discharging accidentally by locking the lever and tamper seal. Removing it unlocks the mechanism so you can actually discharge the agent when you squeeze the lever. So the correct action is to pull the pin.

After pulling the pin, you would aim at the base of the fire, then squeeze or push the lever to release the agent, and sweep from side to side to cover the area. The other actions listed—pushing the handle, pressing the lever, or pointing the nozzle—are done after the pin has been pulled.