Before inflating a survivor's personal flotation device, what must the Rescue Swimmer do when using a quick fitting harness?

When using a quick fitting harness, it's crucial for the Rescue Swimmer to disconnect the chest quick ejector snap before inflating a survivor's personal flotation device. This is because the quick ejector snap facilitates a swift release of the harness system, allowing for safer and more effective deployment of the flotation device without interference.

The harness must not be in a position that could inadvertently restrict the survivor during an emergency, especially when they are in distress and could panic. By disconnecting the quick ejector snap, the swimmer ensures that the survivor can be smoothly transitioned into a safe position and that the flotation device can expand unobstructed, enhancing the survivor's buoyancy and safety in the water.

While checking the flotation device's functionality, reassessing the survivor's condition, and securing the survivor's arms are important tasks during a rescue operation, the immediate and critical step prior to inflating the flotation device is to disconnect the quick ejector snap. This ensures that the rescue can proceed without additional complications and keeps safety at the forefront of the operation.