Is skydiving safe? Yes see !!!!! Skydiving is a high-speed aerial sport that exposes its participants to the real risk of injury and death. Each year in the U.S. about 35 people die while making approximately 2 million parachute jumps. Other skydivers are sometimes killed while riding aboard jump aircraft. Analysis of skydiving accidents show that most are caused by jumpers who make mistakes of procedure or judgment. Contrary to popular belief, very few skydiving accidents or injuries are caused by random or unexpected equipment failure. Those skydivers who are trained well, who stay current and who take a conservative approach to the sport are involved in very few accidents and suffer few -- if any -- injuries. Some people prefer not to expose themselves to significant risks, while others accept the risk in exchange for the enjoyment the activity offers. Most parachute centers require that each customer sign a legally binding assumption-of-risk agreement. The document makes it clear that the sport has its risks and that the jumper is electing to jump in spite of those risks. What are the age requirements? As far as the government is concerned, there is no minimum age for skydiving in the U.S. But most parachute centers require their customers be at least the age of legal majority in their state -- typically 18 years of age. There is no upper limit. There are many active skydivers who are in the 60s and older. What are the physical requirements? Although skydiving is not a strenuous sport, people who are in reasonably good shape enjoy it more and are less likely to suffer an injury. Certain conditions -- epilepsy, obesity, heart problems and others -- might preclude someone from jumping. Anyone who thinks he has a medical condition that would interfere with his safe enjoyment of flying and skydiving should check with his physician before jumping. Where can I make my first jump? There are about 400 skydiving centers scattered across the U.S. Most are located on smaller outlying airports. Some are large commercial centers and others are small private clubs. Many are opened year around, while those in the northern states are usually closed in the winter. Some operate only on weekends, but others are open during the week, too. Most drop zones advertise in the yellow pages of telephone directories under parachuting and skydiving. Another option is to call 1-800-SKY-DIVE. This toll-free number will automatically connect you with a parachute center in your area. (As of early this year the network didnt yet cover the entire U.S., but it did cover much of it.)
Posted on: Wed, 23 Oct 2013 22:09:33 +0000
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