Comments on: Man Dies in Skydiving Mishap at Lost Prairie
By whitefishroost on 07-29-10
Another tragedy at Lost Prairie? It seems like every year one or more people die out there, or it just my imagination? So sad that the article seems to say they all expect to die the way they live life. Would anything like additional mandatory packing inspections or safety checks by disinterested third parties, FAA or instructors help? Does this sport have a NGB that deals with safety at these meets? Its such a waste of life and heartbreak for their families and friends.
By Roark on 07-29-10
whitefishroost, throwing a government regulation on what is a strictly personal choice is not the answer. There is always risk in something like this regardless of how much the government may or may not control it. Such is life. The last thing I want is the gov’t to get more invloved in my personal affairs. I don’t need or want a babysitter - if I engage in a dangerous form of entertainment than I must realize the risks I take.
By whitefishroost on 07-29-10
The FAA is already involved, so I guess I could of left out that. But what about the industry itself? A person who packs chutes gets certified to pack others and can do his own…. so I was suggesting a cross check of peers equipment, perhaps. I don’t know what they do out there.
The mere fact that you decide to sky dive and know you could be killed does not mitigate the common sense that if let say, one more set of eyes at a public competition examines your equipment in the hubbub of a competition might save a life in the long run.
Your rugged individualism is a good thing and your statement that you do not need a baby-sitter is all duly noted and understood.
You will not be there to take care of the consequences after an accident to boast needing lack of interference then because society and government will be there to scoop up your remains and deal with the emergency scene and hysterical onlookers.
The sheriff, EMTs, FAA, coroner, insurance accident investigators and a host of others will deal with your personal choice and individualism which costs society and everyone despite your plea for freedom to engage in the activity in the end.
Not to mention the cost to friends, family and fellow danger engagers.
If the accident could of been prevented by an additional once of prevention and foresight, then the resulting ton of the tragedy could have also been prevented.
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