Which action is the first step in the PASS method?

Which action is the first step in the PASS method?

• A. Pull the pin
• B. Aim at the base of the fire
• C. Squeeze handle
• D. Sweep side to side

Answer: (A)

Pulling the pin is the first step because it unlocks the extinguisher’s discharge mechanism. The pin acts as a safety tamper seal to prevent accidental discharge during handling. Once the pin is removed, you can squeeze the trigger and release the extinguishing agent. You can’t effectively aim, squeeze, or sweep until the pin is out, so removing it sets the sequence in motion. After that, you aim at the base of the fire to target the fuel source, squeeze the handle to release the agent, and sweep from side to side to extinguish the flames.

Pulling the pin is the first step because it unlocks the extinguisher’s discharge mechanism. The pin acts as a safety tamper seal to prevent accidental discharge during handling. Once the pin is removed, you can squeeze the trigger and release the extinguishing agent. You can’t effectively aim, squeeze, or sweep until the pin is out, so removing it sets the sequence in motion. After that, you aim at the base of the fire to target the fuel source, squeeze the handle to release the agent, and sweep from side to side to extinguish the flames.