With low risk lifts, the partner leading the dance always has both hands on the follower. Likewise, the follower usually keeps both hands in contact with the leader, although she does not necessarily need to do so. These kinds of lifts include up and down lifts in which the leader lifts the follower from the waist and quickly puts her back down. You have a wide margin for error with these lifts and can safely abort them in case of a problem or discomfort.
These slightly more daring lifts involve more skill and timing than low risk lifts. The leader holds the follower with both hands, but both the follower and leader need significant strength and coordination to master medium risk lifts. Lifts that involve the leader pulling the follower through his legs, shoulder sits and straddle jumps are considered medium risk moves. Attempt them cautiously, but rest assured that you probably will not sustain any major injuries if your lift goes wrong.
High risk moves allow very minimal or no margin for error. Any lift that involves the leader throwing or taking his hands away from his partner qualifies as a high risk trick. Practice these lifts with a spotter or mat present to minimize your risk of injury and only attempt them with a partner you trust. Improperly executed high risk lifts often cause pulled muscles and sprained ankles.
Advanced swing dancers sometimes perform impressive lifts, throws from high altitudes, flips and other acrobatic partnering tricks. These very high risk moves often involve the follower being propelled into the air upside down, like backward somersault or vertically suspended without the support of the leaders hands, like in a back slide. Only attempt these stunts in a padded area with a third person spotter present and try not to perform too many in a single evening. Trying tricks and stunts you are not prepared for could lead to broken bones or fatal injuries.