Safety FAQ

What follows is by no means a definitive list. It is basic safety FAQ´s

Training

Always get trained at a British KItesports recognised school before participating in any kitesport.

What course should I do?

A two or three day course depending on your kite flying skills and other sports you have done in the past such as wakeboarding, surfing, kite landboarding, windsurfing etc.

Observe kitesurfing / kitesports zones

Zones have probably been set up so you have somewhere to practice your sport with the agreement of the local landowners.  Please observe local regulations and if unsure please ask other riders, beach users or local officials.

Check weather conditions and other factor such as tides, sunset time etc.

• Do you know what they are doing?
• Do not go out in conditions you cannot handle
• Check what kite sizes other riders are using
• If you do not have the correct size do not go out
• Always tell someone you are going out an when you will be back

Tell any new/ visiting riders about the launch/no launch zonesBecause we all want to keep our access to the beaches and shores

Beach etiquette

• Always wrap up your lines if you are not using or planing to launch your kite
• Always make sure that you have your kite properly secure with enough ballast on it at all times

Launching

• Do not ask or allow someone who is not familiar with kites to help you launch or land – give them some training on how to do it.
• Members of the public have no idea of the power of the kite or the risk of entanglement.

Learn how to self launch and land

Because even if you usually fly with buddies, someday the weather will be perfect and you will want to self launch (same with landing especially in emergencies)

Ask some one knowledgeable to assist you.

Why? Because even if you want to self launch it´s a safer method.

Equipment

• Kite Leash Always wear a kite leash and that it depowers the kite you are using satisfactorily
• Quick Release Test your quick release before each session and it is clear from foreign objects
• Kites Don´t launch an under-inflated or leaking kite as an under-inflated kite is much harder to control.
• Check your lines – VERY IMPORTANT Check and double check your lines – if you are unsure ask someone else to check they have been attached correctly. If rigged incorrectly it will seriously effect control . Not only can your lines be tangled in obvious ways they can be “inside out” which is not obvious but which nonetheless makes the kite uncontrollable

Space

Whilst Riding – Maintain a safety buffer zone between yourself and others users of the space you are riding in as they may not understand the sport

Always assume that a crashed kite will relaunch unexpectedly. An amazing number of people have been absolutely amazed when their kite suddenly took off despite being tangled, inside out, partially inflated – so be aware at all times

If the kite appears hopelessly tangled or deflated never move towards it If the kite takes off and you get tangled in the lines it could put you in a life threatening situation

If you need to pack up- 1. Use the reride safety system on your bar 2. Pull yourself to the kite while winding the uneven lines onto the bar 3. After deflating the kite keep clear of the bridal lines If the kite has two lines attached it can generate power even if it is so tangled it can´t take off

Know your rights of way

We use the rules of the road taken from sailing Someone has got to give way !  BKSA Rights of Way Brochure IKA International Kitesurfing Rights of Way

Protection – appropriate to the sport

Always wear the following taking into account where you are riding and your ability level Whilst on Land

• Long Sleeve – long legged trousers
• Helmets
• Knee and Elbow pads
• Back protection
• Strong footwear

Whilst on Water

• Wetsuit – This will keep you warm and extend your time on the water
• Helmet – If things do go wrong this could save your life – especially on land
• Bouancy Aid – Helps in the early stage – gives added floatation
• Boots – Keep your feet warm and protect from underwater objects

Never ride out further than you can swim

Assume that today will be the day you get to swim in from the farthest point out you go as equipment failure while rare these days does happen If you are unsure or you have another question please email: [email protected]