Describe the equipment pre-flight strategy to use before putting on your gear.

The pre-flight equipment strategy of using a "top to bottom, back to front" approach is essential for ensuring that all necessary gear is checked systematically before gearing up for a skydive. This method allows the skydiver to start by inspecting the helmet and any upper gear first, such as the altimeter and other altitude-sensing devices. Moving from the top to the bottom ensures that any adjustments needed on the helmet or upper gear do not interfere with later actions.

Following this, moving from the back to the front allows the skydiver to adequately assess the main parachute pack, reserve parachute, and harness. This sequence helps ensure that the critical components closest to the body, such as the harness and cutaway system, are properly checked before the final preparatory steps, which include securing any front-facing items like the leg straps or audible altimeters.

This systematic approach minimizes the chances of overlooking any essential safety checks and fosters a habit of thoroughness, significantly reducing the risks associated with skydiving. Other strategies like “side to side” or “bottom to top” may not provide the same efficiency or logic in checking these critical components in a safe and effective manner.