What does PASS stand for in the context of using a fire extinguisher?

The acronym PASS provides a simple and effective way to remember the proper steps for using a fire extinguisher. The steps are critical for ensuring safety and efficiency when responding to a fire emergency.

"Pull" refers to the action of pulling the pin at the top of the extinguisher, which unlocks it and allows you to operate it. "Aim" instructs the user to point the nozzle at the base of the fire, where the flames are the hottest and where it's most effective to extinguish the flames. The "Squeeze" step involves squeezing the handle to release the extinguishing agent, which helps to combat the fire. Lastly, "Sweep" means to move the extinguisher nozzle from side to side at the base of the fire, ensuring that the agent effectively covers the area and extinguishes the flames.

The other choices present variations that change these critical actions, which could lead to confusion or incorrect usage in a real emergency scenario. Understanding each component of PASS is key to responding correctly in a fire situation, allowing for a quick and effective approach to putting out small fires before they escalate.