Safety Protocol

Rocketeers (For the latest launch news, be sure to check our Facebook page before heading out to a launch!)

All high power launches are required to have redundant ejection systems aboard. At a minimum, all HP flights will have two completely independent systems for ejection of a recovery device at apogee. These systems can be in the form of a motor ejection charge with a flight computer controlled ejection charge, or two flight computers controlling separate ejection charges. In addition, ANY high performance rocket, regardless of motor choice, is strongly encouraged to incorporate these redundant ejection systems also.

Do not allow vistors or uncertified individuals to retrieve your rocket.

Mark the location of your rocket's CP (center of pressure). The RSO will ask you for the location of the CP.

All high and mid power multi-stage rockets must fly with a flight computer that inhibits upper stage ignition if parameters for a safe flight are violated. Timers that have no capabilities to lock-out upper stage ignition, are prohibited for high or mid power multi-stage flights.

Tripoli L2 and L3 members may fly research motors. All spark type motors are prohibited. No exceptions.

From the LCO (Launch Control Officer):

If, at any time, you would like to leave the immediate area to search, or retrieve, please go to the LCO desk first and let them know the approximate area you will be searching. It is your responsibility to monitor GMRS/FRS channel 7 for updates from the LCO while in the field.

When the LCO announces that the pads, or range, are "open" you may cross into the pad area at will. Please remember that the LCO, or RSO, will likely deny your request to cross the flight line while the range is "closed/hot/active".

***** Spectators ***

General spectator attendance is discouraged. Those that have an interest in becoming a certified member of 4CRA, however, are welcome. For all of those in attendance, high/mid/low power rocket flight comes with risk. All in attendance can mitigate these risks by following a few guidelines. Please understand that all in attendance do so at their own risk.

1. Get on your feet and WATCH each launch carefully. Know where the rocket is during it's flight. Pointing at it can help others find it in the sky.

2. Listen to the announcements/directions of the LD (Launch Director). These announcements will be make over the PA system and transmitted on the FRS channel 7. Only emergency communication between you and the LCO should occur on Ch 7. Please move conversations between you and others to another channel. Don't forget to verify that your private channel features are disabled before launch day.

3. Everyone must stay behind the flight line when the range is closed for a launch. The flight line is an imaginary line at the front edge of the LCO's table extending in both directions.

4. Never chase after or pick up a rocket. As a general rule, rockets are retrieved by the rocketeer, or a designee only.

5. While 4CRA members want YOU to become certified so that you can fly with us, attempting to engage a rocketeer in conversation while he/she is prepping a rocket for launch is not the best idea. If you need help in finding someone to talk to about becoming certified, seek out the LD/LCO (Launch Director/Launch Control Officer) and allow him/her to point you to one of our members that is not engaged in launch preparations. They will be able to give all of your questions the careful consideration they deserve.

6. Children are welcome with an adult AND must be supervised at ALL times by parents/guardians. Please insure that your children understand and follow all guidelines.

Thank you.... We are happy you have joined us!