If the canopy drags on the ground after landing, what is the immediate action a jumper should take?

When a canopy is dragging on the ground after landing, the immediate action a jumper should take is to release the brake lines to prevent further drag. This action helps to alleviate the tension on the canopy and reduces the risk of the parachute continuing to pull the jumper along the ground, which can lead to injury or damage to both the jumper and the equipment. By releasing the brake lines, the jumper allows the canopy to flow more freely, which can help it to deflate and reduce its surface area, ultimately stopping the drag and allowing for a safer situation.

Maintaining position until the canopy settles could expose the jumper to potential hazards, while cutting the canopy away from the harness is generally a more drastic measure that may not be necessary in this scenario. Returning to the landing area to check equipment is also not an immediate priority when dealing with the hazard of dragging. The focus should first be on ensuring personal safety and stopping any further adverse effects caused by the dragging canopy.