What must you do first when operating a PBE?

When operating a Portable Breathing Equipment (PBE), it is crucial to prioritize safety by ensuring that you put it on away from any fire or hazardous conditions. This step is essential because the PBE is designed to provide breathable air in environments that may be immediately dangerous to life or health. By putting the PBE on away from the fire, you minimize the risk of exposure to heat, smoke, or toxic fumes, thereby ensuring that you can effectively protect yourself and maintain a clear air supply.

Other steps, such as removing it from its container, opening the pouch, or stretching the rubber openings, are subsequent actions that should follow the initial placing of the equipment on your body. Making sure you are in a safer environment before donning the equipment allows you to focus on securing it properly and achieving a proper seal, which is essential for the device to function effectively.