What should you do first before using a fire extinguisher?

The primary action to take before using a fire extinguisher is to ensure your exit is clear. This is crucial for personal safety. When facing a fire, it's vital to have a safe escape route available should the situation escalate quickly. If the fire proves too large or uncontrollable, you need to be able to exit the area without hindrance.

By confirming that an exit is clear, you allow yourself the opportunity to retreat safely if necessary, preventing potential injuries or getting trapped. You might feel inclined to assess the size of the fire or call for help, but these actions can be risky if an exit is not secure. Pulling the pin on the extinguisher is a necessary step when you are ready to proceed with extinguishing the fire, but it should only be done after ensuring a safe escape route is available.