Before you use an extinguisher
Only fight a fire if it is small, contained and not spreading, you have a clear way out behind you, and the alarm has been raised or 911 has been called. If any of that is not true, leave and close doors behind you. Keep your back to an exit and stay 6 to 10 feet from the fire when you start.
The P.A.S.S. steps
1. Pull the pin
Hold the extinguisher upright and pull the pin. This breaks the tamper seal and unlocks the operating lever.
2. Aim low
Point the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire, where the fuel is burning. Spraying the flames above does little.
3. Squeeze the handle
Squeeze slowly and evenly to release the agent. Let go to stop.
4. Sweep side to side
Sweep across the base of the fire until it appears to be out. Watch the area. If it reignites, repeat. Most portable extinguishers empty in seconds, so if the fire is not going out, get out.
Why P.A.S.S. belongs on the cabinet
People rarely read instructions in an emergency, and they never read them in the dark. HighVis etches PULL PIN, AIM, SQUEEZE, SWEEP into the cabinet door and lights it from the edge, so the steps are in front of the person at the exact moment they reach for the extinguisher, even with the lights out.
Workplace extinguisher training is covered by OSHA when employers provide extinguishers for employee use (29 CFR 1910.157). Hands-on practice with your local fire department or a certified trainer is the best way to learn.