In relation to fire safety, what does "sweep" refer to in the P.A.S.S. method?

In the context of fire safety and the P.A.S.S. method, "sweep" refers specifically to the action of sweeping the extinguisher side to side at the base of the fire. The P.A.S.S. acronym stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep. Each step is crucial for effectively using a fire extinguisher.

When you sweep the nozzle of the extinguisher side to side, you create a wider coverage area and ensure that the fire is being effectively doused from its base, which is essential in extinguishing flames. By targeting the base of the fire, you can cut off the fire's fuel supply, which is vital for ideally controlling and extinguishing a blaze. This method emphasizes the importance of proper technique in utilizing a fire extinguisher to maximize its effectiveness.