6 Safety Tips When Flyboarding For The First Time
Oct 21, 2020
The sport of flyboarding is highly exciting and a quick thrill pill. A Flyboard is a device that allows both aerial and underwater propulsion by directing pressurized water through nozzles. It is used along with a personal watercraft. Even though the sport is increasingly sought out by the adventurous, there are some risks that you need to be aware about.
Training by professional experts is the best route to take when you are looking forward to a safe flyboarding experience.
The device can be used in different ways; the first method is where one person has the duty of sitting on the personal watercraft, controlling the throttle, while the other uses the flyboard. Even though the individual on the personal watercraft is in charge of the throttle, the person on the flyboard is still able to navigate himself as he has control of the directions.
In another method, the person on the personal watercraft is only observing while the person on the flyboard has control over the throttle and navigation.
Common Safety Concerns While Flyboarding
Some of the common safety concerns one has to be aware of while flyboarding include:
The safety of the operator who has control of the device
The safety of the operator while the device hits the water surface at high speed.
The safety of the operator during diving and after resurfacing from the water.
The safety of other persons in the water, especially during resurfacing operations.
Safety during the training of the operator, which will include take-off, flying, turning, hovering, diving, aerobatic, resurfacing and landing procedures.
Safety Conditions
Before flyboarding a certain set of safe operating conditions is required to be met.
The common safe operating conditions include:
The operator must have a national Certificate of Operation, mentioning the activity allowed.
The operator of the personal watercraft must have a Coxswain’s Certificate of Competency, have undertaken the training course operated by the flyboard manufacturer and must have gained their accreditation so that they can act as an instructor.
The flyboard is to be only operated during daylight hours and in conditions where there is good visibility.
The Flyboard can not be operated in water spaces where the depth is less than four meters. They are also not allowed to dive in this depth.
The operator of the device has to bring it back to the water, in cases where another nearby vessel is at the proximity of 60 meters from the flyboard.
The area to be used for flyboarding has to be marked with buoys in the water and signs at the ramp, lagoon entrance or water entry point.
A designated safety officer has to be present on the shore to observe activities and to keep a lookout for other water users. The safety officer and the flyboard operator must also have a means of communicating with each other.
6 Safety Tips While Flyboarding
Flyboarding is a sport that requires adequate training before the start. All beginners are strictly advised to undergo necessary training and to only carry out the sport under supervision.
The device is a hydro flight device that consists of a pair of boots connected to a board. There are also hose pipes below the board, which allow the adjustment of the water pressure enabling you to remain at the required height.
The common safety tips to be followed during this sport include understanding the following instructions:
Swimming
Swimming is considered a prerequisite for most water sports and the same goes for flyboarding. Your instructor is likely to ask you whether you know how to swim or not. Although chances of accidents are uncommon, it is always best to know how to swim.
You can be an intermediate swimmer to engage in this sport, but being a proficient swimmer will be in your favor. The more skilled you are at swimming the lesser time it will take for the instructor to teach you about flyboarding.
Age
Flyboarding is not a sport that has age restrictions but some rules are usually set by the authorities to ensure safety. The sport is suitable for elders and teenagers. However, in the case of teenagers below the age of eighteen, certain requirements need to be met beforehand. Since safety is a top priority a majority of flyboard rentals and local authorities require that children below the age of eighteen years are to be accompanied by a guardian. They are only able to enjoy the sport in the presence of a guardian.
Weight
Your weight plays an important role to be eligible for flyboarding. It is always essential to ask rental companies and instructors about weight limits regarding the flyboard because different flyboards have different capacities. While some companies may suggest that you will be able to enjoy the sport regardless of your weight, this is not the case and this can be a safety hazard.
Researching on your own is always healthy as this can enable a deeper understanding of all the dos and don’ts before actually making the dive. Since you will initially require sufficient training you can also ask your instructor about all the formalities regarding the sport, and ensure that your safety is not compromised.
Balancing the flyboard can be difficult for those individuals who are on the heavier side, and in some cases the flyboard may not be able to lift you adequately from the water as your weight is above the limit the flyboard can lift.
Avoid Intoxicants
All kinds of intoxicants including alcohol cannot be consumed before flyboarding. Some of you will already have a hard time balancing yourself; the effect of a substance can make you unable to balance yourself. For safety purposes and to enjoy your experience you must be able to balance yourself right.
Safety Gear
Before flyboarding make sure you have all your safety gear in place as this a must. Although the sport is suitable for all ages, safety measures and equipment have to be abided by and used appropriately. The device contains safety boots that will help you fasten to maintain your balance and to ensure you do not fall off. Other equipment includes a helmet and a life vest both of which are important to prevent accidents.
In flyboarding it is common to dive and then resurface in some cases there might be rocks underneath which can cause considerable harm upon collision. Your safety gear will ensure that you are safe and protected.
Follow Instructions
When it comes to flyboarding or any other high thrill water sport, it is always vital to closely pay attention and to follow instructions given by the instructors. A flyboard is usually connected to a watercraft that creates tides. Your trainer will be on the watercraft and help you avoid mistakes. Before the experience you will be given extensive training and also be briefed on a set of guidelines, which are to be practiced when actually flyboarding.
Follow your instructor’s guidelines on hydro flying.
When selecting an instructor, make sure you pay attention to their qualifications and certification. Only experienced people with an aquatic license can train those who want to enjoy flyboarding or any other water sport. They know the best measures to have fun and stay safe. Get the best out of this thrilling sport by following instructions while having fun.
