Since parasailing’s inception 20 years ago, numerous people along Florida’s west coast have been killed or severely injured by the activity. Parasailing operations do not require a license, and no state or federal agency inspects or certifies equipment.
This past weekend a 27-year-old Georgia woman was severely injured when her tow line broke during bad weather. She remained in critical condition Tuesday at Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg.
The Georgia woman and her fiancé went for a parasailing ride Sunday afternoon. Winds began to blow when they were 50 feet in the air and one mile offshore.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation, which is a part of the investigation team, the boat’s operator was in the process of pulling the couple in when the winch let loose and the couple flew to the end of line. Once fully extended, the line snapped.
Clearwater Police said, after removing himself from his harness, Ladd fell to the water as he tried to help White remove hers. White, still in the harness, was dragged to the ground hitting beach umbrellas and chairs before hitting a 4-by-4 post for a volleyball net.
The parasailing operator has not been charged, and an investigation is ongoing by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation, according to Clearwater police, and the Coast Guard.
In 2005, the Coast Guard recommended that operators adopt guidelines of the self-regulated Professional Association of Parasail Operators. Clearwater has adopted those guidelines as requirements for all parasailing companies harbored at the city marina.
The guidelines require that no parasailing shall take place if a storm is approaching within 7 miles that has sustained winds above 20 mph, or if winds gusts appear dangerous. The captain has the duty to evaluate weather. This past Sunday, other captains decided to return to shore, but the captain of the couple’s boat decided to stay. It only took 12 minutes for winds to jump from 6 mph to gusts of near 35 mph.
Mark McCulloh of the National Parasail Safety Council believes greater oversight could prevent injuries, and the Coast Guard could easily expand to endorse licensing.
McCulloh is aware of only one captain who has lost his license because of a parasailing fatality. He said many are never charged.
Source:
“Despite numerous tragedies, parasailing industry still lacks oversight” (St. Petersburg Times, September 8, 2010)