USPA Skydiving B License Practice test

During a total malfunction in freefall, the appropriate course of action is to initiate a cutaway and deploy the reserve parachute. This action is critical because a total malfunction indicates that the main parachute is not functioning properly and cannot be safely deployed. The priority in such a scenario is to ensure the skydiver's safety by relying on the reserve parachute, which is designed specifically for emergencies like this.

Cutaway procedures are a crucial skill for skydivers; they involve a swift move to detach the malfunctioning main parachute in order to allow for the reserve parachute to be deployed effectively. Prompt action is necessary as freefall leads to rapidly decreasing altitude, and delaying could jeopardize the skydiver's chances of a safe landing.

Options that suggest trying to fix or steer the malfunctioning parachute are ineffective and risky. Time spent attempting repairs or adjustments could result in altitude loss that may be too significant for a safe reserve deployment. Additionally, freefalling without control after recognizing a malfunction is neither safe nor effective, as the skydiver should focus on immediate emergency procedures rather than waiting for altitude control to be regained.