How to Handle a Halon Fire Extinguisher

Halon fire extinguishers are highly effective firefighting devices. They use halon gas, which doesn't leave any residue. This minimizes cleanup and makes halon extinguishers ideal to use around electrical or otherwise delicate equipment. However, halon fire extinguishers can be hazardous to your health and safety if you use them improperly: Most employers who use these extinguishers have their employees formally trained to deal with halon. Besides requiring this specific training, halon fire extinguishers operate like most other fire extinguishers.

• 1

  Follow the "PASS" acronym to use a halon fire extinguisher. "PASS" stands for pull, aim, squeeze and sweep.

• 2

  Pull the extinguisher's pin. The pin should be at the top of the extinguisher. It prevents you from pressing the handle and discharging the extinguisher accidentally.

• 3

  Aim the fire extinguisher's nozzle. Always aim at the base of the fire. Stand 4 to 6 feet away from the fire because a halon fire extinguisher's range is more limited than other kinds of extinguishers.

• 4

  Squeeze the handle to discharge the fire extinguisher.

• 5

  Sweep the nozzle back and forth, still aiming at the base of the fire. Watch the fire carefully until you are sure you have put it out.

• 6

  Release the handle to stop the discharge.