What is the first action you should take when preparing a fire extinguisher for use?

Checking the pressure of a fire extinguisher is crucial because it ensures that the extinguisher is operational and ready for use in an emergency. Fire extinguishers are equipped with a pressure gauge, which indicates whether the extinguisher is fully charged and functional. If the pressure is too low, the extinguisher may not discharge properly, putting lives and property at greater risk during a fire incident.

It's important to ensure that the extinguisher's pressure falls within the recommended range indicated on the gauge. If the pressure is low, the extinguisher should be serviced or replaced. While inspecting for damage, verifying the expiration date, and ensuring the proper type for the fire are also essential steps to ensure overall safety and compliance, they are secondary to ensuring that the extinguisher is charged and capable of operating when need arises.