What is the first action when preparing to strap into the ejection seat?

When preparing to strap into the ejection seat, the appropriate first action is to work from feet up. This method ensures that the harness is secured in an orderly and safe manner, starting with the leg straps and then moving up towards the shoulder straps.

Working from the feet up is particularly important for several reasons. It promotes a systematic approach to securing yourself in the seat, which minimizes the risk of missing any crucial steps. It also helps establish a sense of organization, keeping the harness and straps untangled while allowing for easier access to the necessary components.

In contrast, fastenings like shoulder straps or leg straps without having first secured the lower components can lead to complications during an ejection situation, where a properly secured seat harness is vital for safety. Thus, beginning with the leg straps and progressing upwards ensures comprehensive and effective strapping into the ejection seat.