Skydiving Safety Resources

Safety isn't just a checklist—it's a mindset. At Skydive Fundamentals, we believe that understanding the "why" behind safety procedures makes you a more confident and capable skydiver. These resources cover emergency procedures, equipment maintenance, and situational awareness skills that every skydiver should master.

We're Christina and Juan Arango, USPA examiners with 20+ years of experience. The guides below represent the knowledge we wish every student had—and the topics we see experienced jumpers need to revisit.

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Off-Landing Procedures

Not every landing happens where you planned. These guides cover what to do when you're heading somewhere unexpected.

⚡ Stay Current

USPA recommends reviewing all cutaway and reserve deployment procedures at least annually in a training harness—and practicing at every reserve repack. When was your last review?

Equipment Safety

Your gear keeps you alive. Understanding how to inspect and maintain it is non-negotiable.

✅ Pre-Jump Gear Check

Every jump, every time:

  • Three-ring assembly seated correctly
  • RSL routed properly (if equipped)
  • Handles in place and accessible
  • Chest strap and leg straps secure
  • AAD on and set correctly
  • Pin check—closing loop tension appropriate

Situational Awareness

The best skydivers aren't just skilled—they're aware. These guides help you read your environment and make smarter decisions.

Training Resources

Build your knowledge systematically with our comprehensive study materials.

Stay Current, Stay Safe

Safety knowledge isn't something you learn once and forget. The best skydivers revisit these fundamentals regularly—especially before trying something new or returning after time away from the sport.

📬 Want More Resources?

Download our free AFF Preparedness Guide or B-License Progression Guide to support your training journey.

Questions about safety procedures or training? Contact us—we're happy to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • USPA recommends reviewing cutaway and reserve deployment procedures at least annually in a training harness. Many experienced skydivers also practice at every reserve repack. If you haven't jumped in several months, a full review before returning is essential.

  • The three landing priorities, in order: (1) Land with wings level, (2) Land in a clear area, (3) Flare and PLF (if necessary). These priorities apply to every landing—routine or emergency.

  • Replace your closing loop when you see any visible wear. The USPA SIM specifies 10% maximum allowable wear. When in doubt, ask your rigger—closing loops are inexpensive and easy to replace.

  • Parachute Landing Fall (PLF) is a technique that distributes landing forces across your body through five points of contact: feet, calf, thigh, hip, and back (lats). It transforms potentially injurious hard landings into safe ones. Learn the full technique here.

  • USPA recommends flotation devices when jumping within one mile of an open body of water. For intentional water jumps (B-License and above), a pre-inflated or automatically inflating device is required. Check your DZ's specific policies.