What action must flight attendants take when the seatbelt light is turned off?

The correct action for flight attendants when the seatbelt light is turned off is to disarm and cross-check the doors. This procedure is critical for ensuring the aircraft is ready for the next stage of the service or any applicable ground operations. Disarming the doors means making sure they are in the proper position for passengers to deplane safely and securely, which is essential after ensuring the seatbelt light indicates that it is safe for passengers to move about the cabin.

The activation and deactivation of the seatbelt light are directly tied to the aircraft’s operational status; when the light is turned off, it signals that the risk of turbulence has decreased, allowing for movement throughout the cabin. However, prior to serving passengers or conducting other duties, securing the doors is a key safety measure that must be followed to maintain a safe environment for everyone on board.

Options like preparing for landing and serving refreshments are actions that occur during specific phases of flight or following other operational signals; they are not immediate steps indicated by the turning off of the seatbelt sign. Conducting a cabin check is also important, but disarming the doors and ensuring they are ready for passenger embarkation or disembarkation takes precedence in this scenario.