How to use a fire extinguisher
To use a fire extinguisher on a small fire, get everyone else out and call 911, keep an exit at your back, then follow PASS: Pull the pin, Aim the nozzle at the base of the flames, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side. If the fire is not out within seconds, or is taller than you, leave and close the door behind you.
About 10 minutes to learnTake care: injury or damage if careless
Mark it once you can do it without this page open.
How to do it
- Keep a multipurpose extinguisher in the kitchen and near the garage, and learn how its pin and handle work now.
- When a fire starts, get everyone out and have someone call 911.
- Only fight a fire that is small, contained and not spreading, with a clear exit behind you.
- Pull the pin, breaking the tamper seal.
- Aim the nozzle low at the base of the fire, not the flames.
- Squeeze the handle firmly and sweep from side to side until the fire is out.
- Back away, watch for it reigniting, and let the fire department check it.
- Replace or recharge the extinguisher after any use and check its gauge monthly.
Stop and call a professional if
- Call 911 for every fire, even one you put out.
- Leave immediately if the fire is spreading, the room fills with smoke, or it is not out within seconds.
- Take a certified class in first aid and CPR: this page is a refresher, not training or certification.
In an emergency, call your local emergency number, 911 in the US. Take a certified class to practice this with an instructor.
Common mistakes
- Fighting a fire before calling 911 or getting others out.
- Aiming at the tops of the flames.
- Letting the fire get between you and the way out.
- Keeping a used extinguisher, which may be empty next time.
Quick self-check
Three questions. Your last score is kept in this browser.
Teach this to someone
A one-page sheet for showing a friend, a roommate or a kid: what to say, what to show, and one question to check it landed.
Teach: How to use a fire extinguisher
What to say
To use a fire extinguisher on a small fire, get everyone else out and call 911, keep an exit at your back, then follow PASS: Pull the pin, Aim the nozzle at the base of the flames, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side. If the fire is not out within seconds, or is taller than you, leave and close the door behind you.
What to show, in order
- Keep a multipurpose extinguisher in the kitchen and near the garage, and learn how its pin and handle work now.
- When a fire starts, get everyone out and have someone call 911.
- Only fight a fire that is small, contained and not spreading, with a clear exit behind you.
- Pull the pin, breaking the tamper seal.
- Aim the nozzle low at the base of the fire, not the flames.
- Squeeze the handle firmly and sweep from side to side until the fire is out.
- Back away, watch for it reigniting, and let the fire department check it.
- Replace or recharge the extinguisher after any use and check its gauge monthly.
When to stop and call a professional
- Call 911 for every fire, even one you put out.
- Leave immediately if the fire is spreading, the room fills with smoke, or it is not out within seconds.
- Take a certified class in first aid and CPR: this page is a refresher, not training or certification.
The check question
Ask: Where do you aim the nozzle?
Related skills
- How to put out a grease fire
- How to test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- How to pack a go-bag
- Every skill in First Aid and Emergencies
Words on this page
Sources
- National fire safety guidance on portable extinguishers, current edition. Checked September 28, 2026.
Last reviewed . First published .