To prepare for a situation that requires the use of a fire extinguisher, teach your staff the P.A.S.S. method.

Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher.  The pin releases the locking mechanism and will allow you to discharge the extinguisher. 

Aim at the base of the fire, not the flames.  To put the fire out, you must extinguish the fuel, not the flames. 

Squeeze the lever slowly to discharge the agent.  If the handle is released, the discharge will stop. 

Sweep from side to side until the fire is completely out.  Operate the extinguisher from a safe distance, then move forward as the fire begins to diminish. 

Never fight a fire if...

• the fire is spreading rapidly.  Evacuate and call the fire department.
• you don’t know what is burning.  Even if you have an ABC extinguisher, unknown materials could explode or produce highly toxic smoke.
• you are at risk of inhaling smoke.  70% of fire-related deaths occur from breathing poisonous gases.

If possible, use the “buddy system” for back up in case something goes wrong.