Which of the following actions is NOT performed immediately after a coupling is made?

The action of securing the load is typically a step that occurs later in the process rather than immediately after coupling is made. After connecting the car to the locomotive or to another car, the immediate actions focus on ensuring that the air brakes are functioning properly and that there is safe clearance for operations.

Stretching slack involves applying air brakes to compress the couplers, ensuring they are tight and that slack has been properly taken up. Checking air pressure is crucial to verify that the braking system is operational and set to the appropriate levels. Additionally, checking for clearance ensures that there are no obstructions that could interfere with the movement of the train. Each of these actions is vital for immediate operational safety and efficiency. Securing the load, while important, usually takes place after these immediate safety checks, aligning with operational protocols.