During the POST EJECTION procedures, which of these items must you check first?

During the POST EJECTION procedures, checking the canopy first is crucial as it is a key element to ensure the pilot's immediate safety and situation awareness after ejection. The canopy typically needs to be assessed to determine whether it is intact and whether there is any immediate risk of debris or other hazards that could affect the pilot's next actions.

Assessing the canopy helps the ejected pilot to better understand their surroundings, especially if they land in an uncontrolled environment. Ensuring the canopy is properly accounted for allows the pilot to focus on other immediate needs, such as survival gear or communication equipment, after confirming that there are no threats directly around them. Thus, prioritizing the evaluation of the canopy aligns with safety protocols designed for effective post-ejection procedures.