PASS is an acronym that helps people remember how to use a fire extinguisher. It stands for:
 

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

 
It is the responsibility of each employer to educate employees on the principles and practices of using fire extinguishers, the hazards associated with small or developing fires, and details of the fire safety plan, including evacuation procedures. Fire extinguishers provide the first line of defense in preventing a small fire from turning into an uncontrollable raging blaze.
 
OSHA offers additional information on the proper procedures for employees to follow when responding to an incipient stage fire. The alarm should be sounded as soon as possible when appropriate, a safe evacuation path should be identified before approaching a fire, and never allow a fire to come between yourself and the evacuation path. Follow the P-A-S-S procedures to pull, aim, squeeze, and sweep with the fire extinguisher while backing away from the flames. Always evacuate immediately if a fire progresses, and learn when to fight or flee.