2. FIND A DROP ZONE
You can't just take a parachute up to the top of the Empire State Building and take a big leap. That, by the way, is called "base-jumping," which stands for jumping off fixed objects, including Buildings, Antennas, Spans (bridges), or Earth (cliffs). But don't even think about doing it - it's illegal almost everywhere, and honestly, it's pretty darn stupid.So where can you go? There are about 400 skydiving centers across the U.S. To find the drop zone nearest you, you can:
- Call 1-800-SKY-DIVE, which will automatically connect you with a parachute center in your area.
- Call the United States Parachute Association at 703-836-3495 to get the name of an affiliated drop zone in your area.
- Look in the Yellow Pages. That's right. Squeezed somewhere between skin care and tanning salons, you'll find a whole slew (depending on where you live) of listings for "Skydiving and Parachute Jumping Instruction." A simple phone call should be enough to organize the whens and wheres of your first jump. Many drop zones offer first-jump courses every weekend, so you may be able to drop by (no pun intended) and check out the class before you schedule your own.
- Ask around. You probably have some friends who have done it. Are they still alive? If so, then go to the same place they did; that way, you can feel assured of your safety. Plus, you might be able to convince those friends to jump with you (some drop zones offer discounts to groups).
- If you're in college, most universities have skydiving clubs. This offers a cheaper and easier way to get into the sport. Plus, nothing brings people together better than absolute terror. You may even make some friends.
