What is the first thing you should do before using a fire extinguisher?

Before using a fire extinguisher, assessing the situation and ensuring your safety is crucial. This step involves evaluating the fire's size and type, the nature of the materials burning, and whether the fire is manageable or requires professional assistance. If the fire is too large, it can be dangerous to intervene with an extinguisher, making it imperative to prioritize personal safety and the safety of others.

This assessment may include making sure there is a clear escape route, so you can leave the area quickly if the situation escalates. Only if you determine that it is safe to use the extinguisher should you proceed to actively combat the fire. Taking the time to evaluate the risks involved helps prevent injuries and further property damage.

The other actions mentioned, such as finding a water source or alerting the fire department, are important but secondary to first ensuring that it is safe to act. Checking the extinguisher’s pressure is a practical component of using a fire extinguisher, but it should take place prior to an emergency when you are conducting routine checks, not in the moment of crisis.