What action is vital before using a fire extinguisher?

Before using a fire extinguisher, performing a quick inspection to ensure operability is vital. This step ensures that the extinguisher is fully functional and ready to be deployed in an emergency situation. Checking the pressure gauge to confirm it is in the operable range and looking for any physical damage or corrosion can help identify whether the extinguisher will effectively combat a fire.

This inspection is crucial because even if a fire extinguisher appears to be in good condition, it may not work if it hasn't been maintained properly or if it's past its service date. Ensuring it is operable can make the difference between effectively putting out a fire and potentially making the situation worse.

While reporting to a supervisor, checking for a valid inspection tag, and reading the instruction manual are all important safety practices, they do not directly impact the immediate readiness of the fire extinguisher for use in an emergency situation. The primary focus needs to be on confirming that the device is operational before relying on it in a critical moment.