What is the purpose of a PASS device and when should it be used?

• A. Personal Alert Safety System to alert others if a firefighter is down or in trouble; used during interior firefighting operations
• B. Public Alarm Sensor System for exterior rescues
• C. Passive Air Safety Signal
• D. Personal Alert Safety System to alert others during exterior operations

Answer: (C)

A PASS device is a Personal Alert Safety System that continuously monitors a firefighter’s movement and will trigger an audible/visual alarm if the wearer stops moving or activates it manually. This immediate alert helps teammates locate and reach a firefighter who is down or in trouble, which is crucial in smoke-filled, low-visibility interior environments. Because interior operations pose higher risk of entrapment or injury, the PASS should be worn during those interior firefighting assignments to ensure rapid rescue. The term described in the other options isn’t correct, as PASS refers to alerting teammates about a Downed firefighter, not to exterior systems or a non-existent “Passive Air Safety Signal.”