If part of the deployed parachute is caught on the jumper or their equipment, what is the correct response?

In the scenario where part of the deployed parachute is caught on the jumper or their equipment, the safest and most appropriate response is to cut away and deploy the reserve parachute. This action is based on the principle of prioritizing safety and ensuring a controllable and manageable descent.

When a parachute malfunctions or becomes entangled with the jumper, it can significantly hinder their ability to control their descent, leading to dangerous situations during landing. By cutting away the main parachute, the jumper can eliminate the malfunctioning canopy and focus on deploying the reserve parachute. This is crucial for regaining control during descent and ensuring a safe landing.

Attempting to free the parachute while maintaining freefall could lead to unpredictable outcomes, including further entanglement or loss of stability. Dropping attached equipment may not resolve the issue, and landing cautiously does not address the immediate problem of a malfunctioning parachute. Therefore, the procedure outlined in option B is the correct protocol to follow in such a situation, reflecting the safety-first mindset that underpins parachuting practices.