Your air brakes warning alarm sounds. What should you do first?

When the air brakes warning alarm sounds, the first action you should take is to apply the service brakes and find a place to stop immediately. This alert indicates a potentially critical issue with the air brake system, which could lead to a loss of braking power. By applying the service brakes right away, you're taking immediate steps to control the vehicle and slow it down safely.

Finding a safe place to stop is crucial as it ensures that you can address the issue without endangering yourself or others on the road. In situations with air brake problems, time is of the essence, and making a prompt decision to halt the vehicle is vital for safety.

Other options may suggest various actions, but they can lead to mismanagement of the situation. For instance, downshifting and pumping the brakes may not address the immediate need to stop when you receive a warning. Similarly, while using emergency brakes sounds logical, it should not be the first step without controlling speed through service brakes. Emergency signals are necessary in some situations, but the priority should always be to stop the vehicle safely and immediately. Ensuring you stop correctly first provides a clear pathway to assess and address the air brake issue effectively.