Key Takeaways
- RACE: Rescue, Alarm, Contain, Extinguish/Evacuate
- PASS: Pull pin, Aim at base, Squeeze handle, Sweep side to side
- Never smoke or use open flames near oxygen equipment
- Never use elevators during a fire - use stairs for vertical evacuation
- Know your facility's evacuation routes and fire equipment locations
Last updated: January 2026
Fire Safety
Fire safety is critical in healthcare facilities where patients may have limited mobility. CNAs must know how to prevent fires, respond to fire emergencies, and use fire extinguishers.
RACE: Fire Response
When a fire is discovered, remember RACE:
| Letter | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| R | Rescue | Remove patients from immediate danger |
| A | Alarm | Activate the fire alarm, call 911 |
| C | Contain | Close doors and windows to limit spread |
| E | Extinguish/Evacuate | Use extinguisher if small fire, or evacuate |
PASS: Using a Fire Extinguisher
When using a fire extinguisher, remember PASS:
| Letter | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| P | Pull | Pull the safety pin |
| A | Aim | Aim at the base of the fire (not flames) |
| S | Squeeze | Squeeze the handle to discharge |
| S | Sweep | Sweep from side to side at the base |
Important: Only attempt to extinguish small fires if you are trained and feel safe. Always ensure you have an escape route behind you.
Fire Prevention
| Risk | Prevention |
|---|---|
| Oxygen equipment | No smoking, no open flames nearby |
| Electrical hazards | Report frayed cords, overloaded outlets |
| Smoking | Designated areas only, never in rooms |
| Flammable materials | Proper storage away from heat sources |
| Space heaters | Generally prohibited in patient areas |
| Cooking | Supervised, approved equipment only |
| Candles | Never in patient care areas |
Fire Alarm Systems
Know your facility's fire safety features:
| Feature | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Pull stations | Manual alarm activation |
| Smoke detectors | Automatic detection |
| Sprinkler system | Automatic suppression |
| Fire doors | Contains fire spread |
| Exit signs | Mark evacuation routes |
| Fire extinguishers | Manual suppression |
Evacuation Procedures
Evacuation priorities:
- Ambulatory patients (can walk independently)
- Patients with wheelchairs
- Patients requiring stretchers or assistance
Evacuation methods:
| Patient Mobility | Method |
|---|---|
| Ambulatory | Walk with escort |
| Wheelchair | Push to safety |
| Non-ambulatory | Carry, drag, or use evacuation device |
| Bed-bound | Mattress drag or evacuation sheet |
Horizontal vs. Vertical Evacuation
| Type | Description | When Used |
|---|---|---|
| Horizontal | Move to another area on same floor | First choice - easiest |
| Vertical | Move to different floor (usually down) | When horizontal not possible |
Never use elevators during a fire!
Oxygen and Fire Safety
Oxygen greatly increases fire risk:
| Safety Rule | Reason |
|---|---|
| No smoking near oxygen | Oxygen accelerates burning |
| No open flames | Including candles, matches |
| No electrical equipment near tank | Sparks can ignite |
| Ground oxygen equipment | Prevent static electricity |
| Store tanks properly | Away from heat sources |
| Post "Oxygen in Use" signs | Alert others to danger |
Fire Drills
Participate actively in fire drills:
- Know your evacuation route
- Know location of fire extinguishers
- Know location of pull stations
- Practice evacuation procedures
- Ask questions if unsure
After a Fire
| Action | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Account for all patients | Ensure everyone evacuated safely |
| Report injuries | Immediate medical attention |
| Do not re-enter | Wait for "all clear" |
| Preserve scene | For fire investigation |
| Document | What happened, when, actions taken |
CNA Responsibilities
| Before Fire | During Fire | After Fire |
|---|---|---|
| Know evacuation routes | Follow RACE | Account for patients |
| Report hazards | Help evacuate patients | Report to supervisor |
| Participate in drills | Close doors | Document actions |
| Keep exits clear | Know PASS for extinguishers | Assist with reunification |
Test Your Knowledge
What does RACE stand for in fire safety?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Where should you aim a fire extinguisher?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
During a fire evacuation, which patients should be moved FIRST?
A
B
C
D