Safety Rules - Swing Spitfire Manual

2. 10 safety rules

• • • • The greatest risk in Speedflying and Speedriding is their simplicity. This can cause users to be
tempted into forgetting or ignoring risks. Exercise particular care if it starts to feel too "normal".
• • • • Assess objective risks
WEATHER: Never fly if there is a föhn wind, storm or cold front. Your speed rider may offer maximum
safety, but the risks caused by extreme turbulence are unpredictable.
AVALANCHE: In unstable areas, make sure you have the appropriate skills/training and equipment
(avalanche transceiver, snow shovel etc)
• • • • Inspect your equipment
Inspect your equipment thoroughly prior to each launch, and do not launch if you discover any damage.
Adjust your equipment according to the conditions – we recommend that you have a reserve chute for
bigger slope distances.
• • • • Assess your own well-being – never fly if you are unwell, whether you are physically unwell or have
other concerns. Take a rest day - the mountains will always be there.
• WHAT IF? - Plan B Do not make any impulsive decisions. Take time to analyse the situation. Always make
a plan B (e.g. choice of route, emergency landing areas etc).
• ALWAYS CARRY OUT A "safety run". Reconnoitre a new route by making a flight with sufficient height.
Be on the look-out for potential obstacles. Ensure when flying near ground level that no third parties will
be injured..
• FOOT LAUNCH = INCREASED RISIK. Please bear in mind that the Spitfire was designed for flying on
skis.
• Do not be afraid to speak out if you feel that others are overestimating their abilities. Likewise, accept
comments from others, even if it is unpleasant to acknowledge mistakes.
• ANALYSE YOUR MISTAKES. Analyse any near-accidents as if they had been actual accidents and learn
the necessary lessons. Avoid a repetition, because next time it could be too late.
• • • • NO RISK – NO FUN, NO LIMIT – NO LIFE.
Respect your limits and do not go beyond them just because you are with more experienced
pilots. Have the courage to say "enough"!