Imagine yourself standing on a platform high up with the forest below you. And then you let go and let gravity take control. (At this point we’re doing a combination of yelling, smiling and cheering all at the same time!)

That’s basically what ziplining is. If you have the guts to give it a go, you’ll be rewarded with a great experience.

Flying over the tops of the trees at a high speed is incredibly thrilling. And it’s safe!

Of course, you need to make sure you to do your part to ensure zipline safety.

The Growth of Ziplining

It has become an increasingly popular activity on vacations, resorts, camps, zoos, and on visits to adventure parks. With so many opportunities to take part, we just want to make sure you do it safely.

We hope you can start your ziplining addiction at our NY and MA adventure parks (starting in 2018!) before venturing off to some even crazier zipline experiences!

Because the activity has substantially increased in popularity, we’ve heard of more injuries coming during ziplining.

We don’t talk about zipline safety to scare you, it’s just to make sure you’re informed before you take part! That way when you fall in love, you have nothing to worry about.

Let’s take a look at the top tips for zipline safety so you can have a great experience without any accidents.

1. Only Trust Professional Operators That Follow Zipline Safety Standards

Backyard ziplines are always dangerous and should be avoided in all circumstances (we still admire those of you who are do-it-yourselfers, we’d just leave this to the professionals).

So how can you tell which ziplines are legit?

For starters, all of the ziplines in our NY and MA parks will be inspected and have some of the top safety standards in the field. But let’s not just talk about our safety, here are some things you need to look for everywhere.

There are official zipline safety standards in many different countries and here in North America, which means the official part is taken care of. Professional zipline operators should be following the standards of the Association for Challenge Course Technology as well as the Professional Ropes Course Association.

Now it’s time to do your part of zipline safety.

• Ask the operator questions about the management of the zipline to make sure all of the precautions have been to put in place to ensure a safe experience. (We promise ours are good to go, but you can ask us if you want to learn more!)
• Ask about safety features and anything that you’re concerned about. (We know how the pre-zipline jitters can get to you)

While we don’t think you need to ask each zipline or adventure park about the following, you can always inquire about:

• Whether they have insurance for accidents.
• How often inspections are carried out.
• And the safety record at the park.

If the company answers these questions with clear answers, we’d say they have zipline safety at the top of their priority list.

2. Talk to the Professionals

At all of our future adventure parks across NY and MA we have operators that can explain every aspect of the journey you’re about to embark on.

That includes everything from the first time you hook up to the line to the end of your trip.

If you’re uncertain about anything the operator has said, or not mentioned, then always ask questions.

Watch to see if there is a demonstration of how to make sure people have a safe and great experience.

You can also take a look at the equipment, such as the ropes and carabiners. Consider if they are looked after and follow professional quality standards.

With the launch of our brand new parks in 2018, you’re getting the best equipment Boundless Adventures has to offer in our NY and MA parks.

3. Please Be Careful on the Platform

Many people assume that the only potential safety concern is when you’re actually going along the zipline. However, many accidents happen while people are on the platforms between the lines.

When you are on about step off the platform, make sure you watch where you are stepping. This will probably be pointed out to you by the zipline operators at all of the parks in NY and surrounding areas.

Most importantly, even if you’re still on the platform you should be strapped in. This way, even if you do slip, it’s not a problem because you’ll be caught by the harness.

When you’re on the platform, make sure you also keep your eyes open for other people. It’s not just your safety that you need to consider, but others as well!

4. Ask Yourself, Am I Up To It?

While ziplining is a ton of fun, make sure that you’re ready for the challenge.

You have to take into consideration your age, weight, general health and other factors.

For instance, many ziplines have weight limits. At Boundless Adventure the weight restrictions for safely ziplining is 265 pounds. If you’re unsure if you’re ready to take part in a zipline adventure, check with a park operator to discuss your planned trip.

There are several other reasons you should stay clear of ziplines for safety reasons. This can include if you are pregnant, elderly, or if you suffer from a health condition that causes you extreme stress or heart problems in certain circumstances.

There are also age restrictions at many parks. At Boundless Adventures the minimum age is 7 years old in our NY and MA Adventure Parks.

If you can’t go ziplining, you can still watch from the sidelines or take part in many of the other activities parks offer.

Experience Ziplining With Us in NY and MA

Ziplining is an experience unlike any other.

While we want you to experience your first zipline and adventure park experience with us, we more importantly want you to do it safely.

Follow these zipline safety tips for any zipline and adventure park you visit in 2018 and beyond to ensure you have a memorable experience.

We’ll see you in the trees!