2024 Facts for Drivers OCR - Copy_166-166.pdf

the fire. Move the extinguisher back and forth in a sweeping motion. Approach the fire working with the wind at your back. Do not approach closer than it 1s safe to do so.. The National Fire Protection Association has developed the acronym “PASS” to help people remember how to use a porta-...

the fire. Move the extinguisher back and forth in a sweeping motion. Approach the fire working with the wind at your back. Do not approach closer than it 1s safe to do so.. The National Fire Protection Association has developed the acronym “PASS” to help people remember how to use a porta- ble fire extinguisher. What does PASS stand for? PASS stands for: P = PULL the locking mechanism that prevents accidental discharge A = AIM the extinguisher at the base of the flames (at the burning material) S = SQUEEZE the handle to activate the extinguisher S = SWEEP the extinguisher back and forth across the fire. Why ts tt important to have the residue of the extinguishing powder removed once the fire ts completely extinguished? ‘The extinguishing agent in many extinguishers is corrosive. If the residue is not removed promptly, it can damage metal compo- nents in the area where the fire occurred. How should an extinguisher be used to put out burning liquid ina small container? To reduce the chance of splashing and spreading the fire, the extinguisher should be aimed at the internal side of the container so that the extinguishing agent slides/falls down onto the burning surface. Placing a cover over the top of a small container may also smother the fire.. What special challenges may exist if a vehicle with air condi- tioning or refrigeration equipment is involved in a fire? When exposed to fire, all refrigerants decompose and create toxic fumes.. What potential hazard exists if fire occurs on a vehicle equipped with an air suspensionf Vehicle air bags are made of material similar to tires and can burn through. If this happens, then the bag can drop down and injure any person who may get trapped underneath or between the bag and other parts of the vehicle. Let