Which action comes first when operating a portable fire extinguisher?

The initial action when operating a portable fire extinguisher is to pull the pin. This step is crucial because removing the pin serves as a safety mechanism that prevents the extinguisher from being accidentally discharged. It ensures that the user can control the discharge of the extinguisher fluid accurately and safely.

Once the pin is pulled, the user can then proceed to aim at the base of the fire, squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent, and sweep the nozzle from side to side to effectively combat the flames. Each of these subsequent actions is important, but without first pulling the pin, the extinguisher cannot be activated.