## Do I Need to Remove Piercings to Skydive?
Skydiving is an exhilarating experience, but it comes with certain safety considerations. One common question among first-time skydivers is whether piercings need to be removed before jumping.
### Regulations and Safety Concerns
Regulations:
Most skydiving facilities have regulations regarding piercings. Generally, piercings in the following areas must be removed:
Face: Nose piercings (studs or rings)
Ears: Dangle earrings, large or heavy earrings, gauges larger than 0g
Neck: Necklaces, pendants, chains
Safety Concerns:
Risk of Injury: Loose piercings can become tangled with the harness or canopy during jumps, potentially leading to discomfort or injury.
Equipment Damage: Piercings, especially large ones, can damage the skydiving equipment.
Infection: Piercings that are newly healed or cause irritation can become infected during the skydive due to the high altitude and wind exposure.
### Piercing Types and Removal Guidelines
Stud / Captive Bead Ring Piercings:
These piercings are generally safe to wear if they are small and snugly fitted.
However, it’s important to ensure they do not become loose or catch on anything during the skydive.
Dangle / Hoop Piercings:
These piercings must be removed before skydiving due to the risk of entanglement.
Gauges:
Gauges larger than 0g are not permitted for skydiving.
Smaller gauges may be allowed if they are snug against the ear and do not pose a safety hazard.
Microdermal Implants:
Microdermal implants are flat, disk-shaped piercings that are implanted under the skin.
These implants are generally considered safe for skydiving as they are not likely to come loose or be damaged.
Removal Procedure:
Remove piercings as follows:
Use clean hands and sterilize the piercing site.
Gently remove the piercing and place it in a secure bag or container.
Clean the piercing site again and cover it with a bandage if necessary.
### Alternatives to Piercing Removal
If you are unable to remove certain piercings, there are alternative options to ensure safety:
Tape: Cover the piercings with medical tape or athletic tape to secure them and prevent them from becoming loose.
Protective Gear: Wear a skydiving helmet that covers the piercings and provides additional protection.
Piercing Technician: If possible, consult a professional piercing technician to remove the piercings and reinsert them after the skydive.
### Additional Considerations
Inform the Instructor: Always inform your skydiving instructor about any piercings you have before the jump.
Bring a Kit: Pack a small kit with clean piercing jewelry, antiseptic wipes, and tape to address any issues after the skydive.
Check with Facility: Different skydiving facilities may have varying regulations, so always check with the facility before your jump.
### Conclusion
While piercings can enhance your personal style, it’s important to prioritize safety when skydiving. By following the removal guidelines and considering the alternatives, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable skydiving experience while showcasing your unique individuality.