subject: Kitesurfing - Safety Tips For Kites And Boards [print this page] Kitesurfing - Safety Tips For Kites And Boards
Kitesurfing dangers can often be reduced if you take the necessary precautions ahead of time. While the sport is not the safest you'll find, it can be one of the most fun, and you will have a great time doing it as long as you do your homework first. That means taking lessons and learning the basics, such as how to launch and land kitesurfing kites, kitesurfing boards control, and how to self rescue. So before you begin, make sure that you keep these safety guidelines in mind. Weather ConditionsAvoid launching kitesurfing kites that are bigger than what you're able to take on. Knowing the upper wind range in your kite is essential to mastering this safety measure. And when in doubt, always go with a smaller kite to reduce the amount of control that you must exercise when maintaining safety standards. Checking EquipmentWorn or knotted kite lines can sever through themselves and cause failures. Your kite, harness, board and wetsuit should all be in good condition. All it takes is a snapped line or interference in your power zone, and fatal injuries can occur. For this reason, it is generally a good idea to keep safe distance between you and others. Leave a minimum of two line lengths of distance between yourself and other persons and objects. Death may occur when dragging a kite into hard land objects.Quick ReleaseMastering your quick release system ahead of time allows you to get out of danger faster and begin a self rescue attempt whenever necessary. Because kite lines are dangerous, it is important that you prevent snagging of a finger or limb. For a high-powered kite this can result in dismemberment. Detaching your lines from the kite when it is not in use prevents this problem. Also, make sure not to leave the kite unattended. If a person trips over lines and launches the kite, you could be responsible for injury or death, and that takes a toll both financially and emotionally. And do not launch when people, animals or objects are downwind of you. This can also result in injuries and liability.Self RescuingIf you find yourself in a trouble situation, it is important to remain calm. It is also a good idea to carry safety tools with you, such as flares in the event that you need to attract help more quickly. If your kite is down and unable to relaunch, possibly from lack of wind or equipment failure, self rescuing can get you to shore safely. Simply convert your kite into a raft and sail. Also, make sure that you do not go out so far that you cannot physically swim back to safety without help. You don't want to survive an accident only to drown from exhaustion later.
