Safety Check

Know Your Gear
What’s the big deal about knowing your gear? You have an audible altimeter to remind you of the ground quickly coming up at you. If you still don’t pull in time, you have an automatic activation device to come to your rescue. And you have a reserve static-line to deploy your reserve immediately after a cutaway. So why do you need to worry about all the details?

Many skydivers these days feel that all the technological advances in their equipment will save them if they get in trouble. They can just turn everything on and go, without fretting over any of the details. But this mindset can be very dangerous. The best piece of equipment any skydiver has to help protect him is his own awareness—everything else is just a back-up.

You might be surprised to discover how many jumpers understand very little about their equipment—anything from AADs to booties. But even if a certain piece of equipment is a good idea in most cases, do you know when that same equipment could cause a potentially life-threatening situation? Even lifesaving devices like AADs and RSLs can cause serious problems in certain situations. It’s important to understand the pros and cons of each piece of equipment and make informed decisions based on the facts.

Consider your harness and container system. Do you know how to connect the three-ring release system? Do you know how to hook up your pilot chute? Do you understand how your closing pins work and how they should look when the rig is packed? What areas of your container do you review for common wear and tear? While your rigger or a hired packer will check most of these items, you should still perform your own checks. After all, it is your life.

Work toward a complete understanding of your equipment and all its working parts. What is the purpose of each item? How is it designed to function? What are its limitations? If you understand all aspects of the equipment you are using, you can make better choices about each item.

There are many ways to learn about different or new equipment. One is by word of mouth. Talk to experienced jumpers about the pros and cons and the what-ifs. Another great way to learn is by reading the owner’s manuals. This information comes straight from the manufacturer and is usually very reliable. When you don’t read the owner’s manual for your new VCR, you might miss your favorite TV show, but you probably won’t die. But skydiving equipment is different. A problem with it could result in injury or death. The USPA Skydiver’s Information Manual is another excellent resource for information about skydiving equipment. And skydiving publications, both print and online, often report on trends and new equipment. Finally, talking to people who make their livings by skydiving can also provide reliable information.

Just because you see other jumpers using certain equipment doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Learn as much as you can from as many sources as you can find. Then ask yourself some questions: Why do you want this piece of equipment? What are the pros and cons? How will this item work with the rest of your current equipment? What might possibly go wrong? Never stop trying to learn more, as skydiving is constantly changing and progressing.

The bottom line is to stay safe. The best way to do this is to rely on yourself instead of back-up safety devices. With constant training, education and vigilance, the life you save may be your own.—Rick Duran

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