08 How do I tell a good Drop Zone from poor one?
Description
This article is from the Skydiving FAQ, by Barry Brumitt with numerous contributions by others.
08 How do I tell a good Drop Zone from poor one?
Most dropzones that provide regular student training are "USPA
Affiliated". The United States Parachute Association (USPA) is the
representative body for sport parachuting within the US, and a member
of the FAI (the international equivalent). The USPA defends the
sport's interests before the FAA and other regulating/lawmaking bodies
at all levels of government. It also develops and monitors safety and
training doctrine for the sport. Other benefits include liability
insurance for students and DZs in the case of damage to property, the
monthly magazine "Parachutist", etc.
The USPA has had tremendous success instituting rating programs for
Jumpmasters, Instructors, and Instructor-Examiners to ensure that only
properly trained and qualified personnel work with students. You
should insist on USPA Instructors and Jumpmasters.
Some USPA-affiliated DZ's have not been diligent in using only
Currently-rated Instructors and Jumpmasters. Do not be afraid to ask
to see your Instructor or Jumpmaster's rating card. It should show the
appropriate rating and expiration date. Also note that currently,
Tandem Jumpmasters are certified by the equipment manufacturer, not
USPA.
USPA affiliation is not required, and does not *guarantee* a DZ to be
a "good" DZ, and non-affiliation does not mean the DZ is "bad".
However, the USPA, through their diligence and caution, has compiled
an excellent safety record over the years.
These are just guidelines. You should always check it out before you
jump.
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