Before opening the lid, make sure the float valve has dropped.

Do not attempt to open the lid if the float valve is still up. Do not attempt to open the lid if it is locked and cannot be easily opened. Do not force the lid open at any time.

If you cannot tell if the float valve has dropped, first turn the steam release handle to the Venting position. If no steam releases, use a long utensil to nudge the float valve down. Note: When opening the lid, the inner pot may adhere to the lid. This is caused by vacuum due to cooling. To release the vacuum, move the steam release handle to the Venting position.