Skydive Tandem Safety Tips

By: Sarah Wallman

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Each year over 400,000 people skydive for their first time in the United States so it's important to know these skydive tandem safety tips. Choosing a tandem jump gives all the thrills of flying out of an airplane, with the experience of a trained professional. These four quick skydive tandem safety tips tips can ensure that a first tandem jump goes safely.

  1. Choose the Right Location. The right instructor makes all the difference. Call ahead and ask questions before booking an appointment. Questions such as "how many jumps have you completed?" or “how long have you been an instructor?” help determine the center's qualification, which can help keep the tandem skydive safe. When booking, do not forget to mention any weight/health conditions that may impact the jump, such as an irregular heartbeat or bad knee as this can impact a tandem skydive's safety.
  2. Dress for the Jump. Another skydive tandem safety tip involves your outfit; falling from 13,000 feet requires some special attire. Wear something comfortable for the ground weather, and the center will provide jackets or jumpsuits. Since loose accessories can fly off at high speeds, it's best to leave any jewelry or eyewear at home. Wear sneakers for the landing, and avoid anything with hooks that could snag the parachute.
  3. Follow Instructions. All jumps start with some sort of instruction on tandem skydiving safety, whether by a video or a talk. To assure skydiving tandem safety pay close attention and follow all directions. In the unlikely event that something goes wrong, the instructor will tell you things to do. Remember that instructors have years of experience, and following their directions can keep everyone safe during a tandem skydive.
  4. Relax and Have Fun. Very few people ever jump from an airplane, so remember to make the time special. Apart from making sure to follow the other skydive tandem safety tips, relax and enjoy. Notice the shape of the earth, concentrate on the feeling of free fall and don't forget to pose for the camera! The jump lasts only a few minutes, but with a few tips, the memory of the safe tandem skydiving experience will last a lifetime.
Posted on: Feb. 10, 2011