• Safe hobbyists adhere to safety precautions when launching a rocket.hobby rockets image by Albert Lozano from Fotolia.com
  
  Sport rocketry began in 1957 with the introduction of the first rocket motor into the consumer market. The National Association of Rocketry (N.A.R.) reports a history of more than 500 million safe model rocket flights since this sport began. The organization says its safety codes contribute to the hobby's safety record. Study and familiarize yourself with the safety code that most applies to the type of rocket you would like to fly. Commonsense safety rules keep model, high-power and radio-control rocket activity safe, educational and fun.
  
  

Model Rocket Safety Code

• The N.A.R. recommends the use of lightweight, non-metal material for key parts of your rocket, such as the nose and fin. Hobbyists must use unaltered, certified model rocket motors, and ignition systems for launchers should be electrical. N.A.R. size requirements and a suitable recovery system, such as a flame-resistant parachute, create a safe environment for launching.
  
  The N.A.R. says that rocket launches need to happen in open, outdoor areas. Hobbyists are to keep spectators at a safe distance from the launch site, too.
  
  

High-Power Rocket Safety Code

• Operators of high-power rockets must have the applicable certification. Licensing requirements may apply.
  
  The safety rules for high-power rockets include the use of suitable materials, ignition system and rocket motors. A 5-second countdown is mandatory. This effort keeps spectators and participants safe. All launches must take place at a site away from trees, power lines and buildings.
  
  

Radio-Control Rocket Glider Safety Control

• Any rocket-boosted model that has a radio control system for direction control is a radio-controlled rocket glider. Specific and detailed N.A.R. safety rules apply to any instance of flying a radio-control rocket glider.
  
  Pilots need to keep their radio equipment on flying model frequencies and make sure their gliders fly in areas free from interference. They must must be sure the rocket glider is in good condition before flying this type of rocket in front of spectators.
  
  A Launch Control Officer is required to coordinate with the pilot of the model rocket, too. N.A.R. guidelines on motor thrust, launch angle and air-starts ensure safe rocket glider flights.