Responding to 11 parasailing passenger deaths and 52 injuries since 2006, the U.S. Coast Guard has issued a marine safety alert, warning watersports proprietors to follow all safe vessel regulations.
"The Coast Guard expects licensed mariners to follow all regulations regarding safe vessel operations and has an expectation of parasail operators to follow established standards," said Rear Adm. Joseph Servidio, assistant commandant for prevention policy, in a statement Monday.
"Parasail operators must evaluate and consider all safety risks before getting under way, including weather conditions and condition and maintenance of equipment, in order to ensure safe parasailing activities. In the future, we expect the parasailing industry and related industry associations to share best practices and develop operational standards to maximize safety and prevent marine casualties."
Parasailing equipment is not regulated or inspected by the federal government and the Coast Guard asks those who decide to parasail to understand the risks and current safety standards for parasailing.
All of the incidents have had several common factors unique to parasailing. The Coast Guard created the mnemonic "Know your ROPES," to remind parasail operators of important safety issues that may help prevent future casualties:
– R is for Remember: Remember that most parasail fatalities and injuries are related to the failure of the towline.
– O is for Observe and Monitor: Observe and monitor weather conditions continuously. ASTM Standard F2993-13 published April 1, 2013, is a "Standard Guide for Monitoring Weather Conditions for Safe Parasail Operation."
– P is for Prepare: Prepare for emergencies by having well-documented procedures and conducting crew training to ensure proficiency in responding to various types of emergencies.
– E is for Ensure: Ensure that all of your equipment is properly maintained on a continual basis.
— S is for Safety: Safety is up to you, the parasail operator.
The Coast Guard ensures safe operation of vessels, but does not regulate or inspect parasail equipment or regulate parasail operations.
