What should a pilot do to legally protect themselves regarding TFRs?

A pilot should call Flight Service for a briefing to ensure they are aware of any Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) that may affect their flight. Flight Service provides comprehensive and updated information about TFRs, weather conditions, and other critical factors that can impact a flight. This pre-flight briefing is essential for a pilot to receive real-time information and to confirm the status of any TFRs prior to departing.

While notifying the FAA of a flight plan, attending a TFR seminar, or filing a notice with local authorities are all actions that have their places in aviation protocols, they do not specifically address the immediate need for information about active TFRs that could affect the safety and legality of a flight. The briefing from Flight Service is the most direct way to receive timely updates and guidance related to TFRs, making it the most effective measure a pilot can take to legally protect themselves regarding these restrictions.