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Check where the operator allows customers to take off
Many parasailing injuries have occurred as a result of negligent operators “dragging” customers up from the beach rather than from the boat’s platform. If you notice a parasailing operator doing this, you should stay away. Although it may seem like more of a thrill, the practice is risky and the operator does not have the same amount of control over what happens to you as you take off as he or she would if you are standing safely on the platform of the boat as shown below in stage 4.
Are customers fitted with lifejackets?
Although it is unlikely you will find yourself in deep water when parasailing, as with any water borne activity, there is still a risk you might. Even if you can swim you should not consider setting foot on a parasailing boat without wearing a lifejacket. If an operator does not fit passengers with lifejackets as standard it is an indicator that he or she is not taking basic safety precautions.
Check the straps on your harness
Any responsible operator will carry out regular safety checks on his/her parasailing equipment, but it‘s always worth doing your own inspection too when you are being fitted with your harness. If you notice any signs of weakness in the harness straps, you should immediately bring it to the attention of the operator and ask for a replacement.
Are there any weight limits?
The weight limit of each parasailor is dictated by the size of the parachute being used to fly them. This is especially true if you are planning on taking a tandem flight. If you are in any doubt you should ask the operator to tell you specifically what the weight limits are for the parachutes he or she uses, as flying outside of the stated weight limits can be potentially dangerous.For more detailed information about parasailing weight limits please refer to the Parasailing FAQs page.
How wide is the area of water the parasailing boat is operating in?
Over the years we have turned down invitations to take part in various water based events around the country, purely because the area of water in question was not wide enough for us to safely fly people. As a general rule, a parasailing boat should have at least a mile of water to turn around and operate in, and the operating area should be well away from roads and buildings.
What is the signal if you want to come down?
Prior to setting off all parasailors should be given a safety brief by the operator. At the very least you should be told what the signal is if you want to come back down once you are in the air. You should also be told how to free yourself from the parachute should you land in the water underneath it. If the parasailing operator has not considered these key safety points you could potentially be placing yourself in danger if you decide to go ahead and fly.
Make sure you are covered
When you take out your holiday insurance, you should make sure you are covered for water sports such as parasailing, as an added precaution.
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