Exit and Freefall
Swoop and docks:
redocks with adjusting fall rates, with a greater horizontal and vertical separation than was seen in Category G
Minimum break-off altitudes:
groups of 5 or fewer, jumping in a familiar location = 1500’ above the highest planned deployment
larger groups or mixed groups (hybrids) = 2000’+ above the highest planned deployment
While tracking, waving-off, and deploying, you should get in the habit of looking sideways and above for jumpers in the immediate area so that you can steer clear under canopy as soon as possible.
Canopy
Front riser inputs:
can be used to turn your parachute
maintain your position in stronger winds
catch up to another jumper under canopy
can be fun
Procedures for recovering from a turn made too low:
Stop the turn and use toggle control to get the canopy back overhead (wings level)
Prepare for a PLF
Manage the speed induced by the turn (expect a longer, flatter flare)
Continue flying your canopy even after premature contact with the ground to reduce further injury
Emergency Review
Water Landings:
disconnect your RSL and loosen your chest strap before entering the water, if possible
prepare to PLF
flare half-way and then finish the flare when your feet touch the water
cut away only after your feet are in the water (depth perception of water may not be reliable)
get out of your harness, if necessary
Flotation devices are recommended for jumpers using ram-air canopies when jumping within a mile of water.
Equipment
Most cutaway cables develop a sludge-like coating that can cause them to bind and require a greater pull force. Therefore, the 3-ring system should be disassembled every month so that the cables may be cleaned and the riser ends massaged. See our blog post and video on the maintenance required.
Stow bands must be replaced with the appropriate sized bands when they stretch, wear, or break. Line stow bands should grasp the line stow bights tightly, resulting in 6-11 pounds of force needed for extraction.
The main closing loop will also need to be replaced when it exhibits 10 percent or greater wear. A worn, or too loose, closing loop can result in a premature deployment.
Spotting and Aircraft
Jump aircraft must have an operating radio for jumping to take place. In addition, the pilot must be in touch with air traffic control prior to jumping. Either the jumper or the pilot must notify air traffic control at least one hour, but no more than 24 hours, prior to jumping in most air space. Some DZs have written notifications that are renewed annually for that location.
In addition, not all aircraft are safe to operate with their door open or removed. Aircraft that are approved may require additional modifications and usually require FAA field approval.