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Understanding Skydiving Safety Measures

May 5, 2025

The Truth About Skydiving Safety

Overview

  • Skydiving is an exhilarating sport enjoyed by tens of thousands globally.
  • Like any sport, skydiving has inherent risks, but measures are in place to mitigate them.

Safety Statistics

  • USPA recorded 3.5 million jumps in the US in 2015.
  • There were 21 fatal skydiving accidents, translating to 0.006 fatalities per 1,000 jumps.
  • Tandem skydiving, involving an experienced instructor, has a higher safety rate with 0.002 fatalities per 1,000 jumps over the past decade.
  • Statistically, risks are lower compared to being struck by lightning or stung by a bee.

Risks Involved

  • Most risks occur during advanced maneuvers like "swooping" which involves parachute work to increase descent speed.
  • Main risks include:
    • Parachute malfunctions (1 in 1,000 chances)
    • Injury on landing (e.g., failure to lift legs during landing)
    • Injury during freefall (often when jumping with others)

Risk Mitigation Strategies

  • Skydiving training is rigorous and military-styled to manage risks effectively.
  • Parachute malfunctions are countered with a backup parachute and clear handling processes.
  • Tandem students are trained to lift legs during landing; experienced jumpers use PLF for safe landing.
  • Freefall injuries are mitigated using AADs (automatic activation devices) that deploy reserve parachutes if the main parachute isn't deployed timely.
  • Recent technological advancements have further enhanced skydiving safety.

Additional Information

  • Tandem skydivers receive a 20-30 minute briefing on equipment before jumping.
  • For further inquiries on skydiving safety, contact the Skydiving Company.