PASS It On: How to Use a Fire Extinguisher
When a small fire breaks out, knowing how to use a fire extinguisher can make a big difference. Fire extinguishers are designed to control small, contained fires—not large or fast‑spreading ones. If you’re ever unsure, your safest option is to get out and call 911.
If your are UNSURE about fighting a small fire – DON”T! Leave the area and call for help!
Do you know the P.A.S.S. word?
Using a fire extinguisher is easier when you remember PASS:
P = Pull
Pull the pin to break the seal.
A = Aim
Aim low, pointing the nozzle at the base of the fire.
S = Squeeze
Squeeze the handle slowly and evenly.
S = Sweep
Sweep the nozzle from side to side until the fire is out.
What Extinguisher Fits Your Needs?
Size Recommendations:
- 10 lbs+, Commercial use (businesses)
- 10 lbs, Garages and home workshops
- 5 lbs, Kitchen or laundry rooms
- 2 lbs, Car or boat (Disposable with mounting brackets to keep it from rolling around)
Bigger extinguishers are often too heavy for people with disabilities or older adults to operate.
Most homes use an A B C “Multi-purpose” fire extinguisher that can be used on all types of A, B, or C fires.
Only buy extinguishers that are UL (Underwriters Laboratories) approved.
Maintenance
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions. Over time, an extinguisher can lose pressure, A quick inspection once a month will help you to know that the extinguisher will be ready.
- National, state, and local codes and regulations require commercial extinguishers to be inspected by a professional every year.
- Shake dry chemical extinguishers once a month to prevent the powder from settling or packing. (Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations.)
- Replace the extinguisher if it needs recharging or is damaged in any way. Take a rechargeable extinguisher to a qualified technician for repair, replacement and refilling, or replace it. Any used extinguisher, whether empty or not, needs to be replace or refilled right away.
Routine Inspection and Care Checklist
✔️ Visible & accessible to everyone
✔️ Gauge/pressure indicator indicates a full charge
✔️ All parts are operational, not restricted
✔️ Clean hoses and nozzles
✔️ No signs of damage/abuse
✔️ No dents or rust
✔️ Pin and tamper seal intact
✔️ No accumulation of oil, grease, bugs,or debris
You may see these signs in businesses to help locate a fire extinguisher quickly.
Recycling and Disposal
Fully charged fire extinguishers should not be placed in the garbage.
Many extinguishers are refillable or may be recharged through various services.
Unwanted expired, damaged or outdated fire extinguishers should be recycled properly.
Fire Extinguishers are NOT accepted through Household Hazardous Waste programs.
Please bring fire extinguishers to licensed servcie provider or collection site.
Partners for Fire Extinguisher Recycling:
*There are no locations in Grundy County at this time.
Crete Township Fire Protection District
26730 S Stoney Island
Crete, IL 60417
708-672-3111
Daily 8 am – 8 pm
New Lenox Township
1100 S Cedar Road
New Lenox, IL 60451
815-485-6431
Open limited hours:
Monday thru Friday, 1 pm—3:30 pm
4th Saturday 8 am—Noon
Village of Peotone
208 E Main Street
Peotone, IL 60568
708-258-3279
Open during normal business hours:
Monday thru Friday, 8 am—5 pm
Wheatland Township (in Naperville)
4232 Tower Court
Naperville, IL 60564
630-717-0092 ext 2
Open during normal business hours:
Monday thru Friday, 8 am—3:30 pm