SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/boat-fire-pass-aim-base

In the PASS method for a fire extinguisher, where do you aim?

At the base of the fire.

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  1. At the top of the flames
  2. At the base of the fire ✔
  3. At the smoke

Why: PASS means Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep along the base. Hitting the base attacks the fuel instead of just the flames.

Huh, didn't know that: NASBLA says turn off the engine and fuel or electrical systems as soon as you spot a fire on board.

The dad joke
Why did the firefighter bring a broom? To sweep the base of the fire.
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References

Answer: At the base of the fire. PASS means Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep along the base. Hitting the base attacks the fuel instead of just the flames.

  1. NASBLA ESP TR 103-2022 Basic Boating Knowledge, Core Plus Power higherlogicdownload.s3.amazonaws.com/NASBLA/76594a34-f3a1-4916-95ac-1e9c872170cc/UploadedImages/education/national-education-standards/ESP_TR_ESP_103_Core_Plus_Power_2022_06_01FINAL.pdf
    To put out a fire, remember PASS: Pull the pin; Aim at the base of the fire
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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