Key takeaways
In the first moments of a fire, a portable extinguisher can stop a small fire from spreading, but only if the person holding it knows what to do. This guide explains the PASS method taught by BOMBA and the safety rules that go with it.
When should you try to put out a fire?
Only fight a fire that is small and in its early stage [1]. Before approaching, identify a safe exit path and make sure the fire, heat or smoke cannot block it [1]. If the fire grows, or if you have any doubt about your ability to fight it, evacuate immediately [1]. In Malaysia, call 999, the national emergency line, which connects to the Fire and Rescue Department [3].
What is the PASS method?
Firefighters from Balai Bomba TTDI teach the following four steps [2]:
- Pull (Tanggal): Remove the safety pin from the extinguisher, keeping the extinguisher upright.
- Aim (Acu): Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, not at the flames.
- Squeeze (Tekan): Squeeze the top lever of the extinguisher.
- Sweep (Sembur): Spray with a sweeping motion from left to right, or the other way, until the fire is fully out.
Pulling the pin also breaks the tamper seal [1].
How far away should you stand?
BOMBA officers advise standing about 1 to 1.5 metres from the fire, and checking the wind direction first [2].
What if the fire does not go out?
If the fire re-ignites, repeat the aim, squeeze and sweep steps [1]. If the extinguisher runs empty and the fire is still burning, evacuate immediately [1].
Which extinguisher should you use?
No single type of extinguisher can be used on every type of fire [4]. Water conducts electricity, so a water extinguisher is unsuitable for fires involving an electrical supply, and a wet chemical extinguisher is not suitable for electrical fires [4]. Check the label before use. For more detail, see our guide: Types of Fire Extinguishers and When to Use Each.
What should you do after using an extinguisher?
- Do not touch the discharge horn of a CO2 extinguisher during or right after use, because it becomes very cold and can damage the skin [1].
- Have the extinguisher refilled immediately, even if only part of it was used [5].
Frequently asked questions
999. The Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia is one of the agencies connected to the 999 emergency system.
The Selangor Fire and Rescue Department states that fire drills should be conducted at least once a year.
Not until it has been refilled. Used extinguishers must be refilled and the refill recorded.
Sources
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), “Fire Extinguisher Use”. https://www.osha.gov/etools/evacuation-plans-procedures/emergency-standards/portable-extinguishers/use
- SAYS, “Abang Bomba ajar step-by-step cara guna alat pemadam api” (Balai Bomba TTDI). https://says.com/my/seismik/trend-mesej-kotak-paling-berguna-abang-bomba-ajar-step-by-step-cara-guna-alat-pemadam-api
- MyGovernment portal, “MERS 999 Emergency Line”. https://www.malaysia.gov.my/en/topics/mers-999-emergency-line
- Fire Protection Association (UK), “What fire extinguisher to use?”. https://www.thefpa.co.uk/news/fire-safety-advice-and-guidance/what-fire-extinguisher-to-use-
- UTHM OSHE, Garis Panduan Penyediaan Alat Pemadam Api, GP.005 Rev.2, 2024. https://oshe.uthm.edu.my/images/Documents/Garis_Panduan/GP.005_REV.2_2024.pdf
- Malay Mail, 17 April 2024. https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/04/17/fire-dept-10pc-of-1900-buildings-with-fire-certificates-in-selangor-do-not-comply-with-requirements/129381
