"Be Safe" - specifics

wiseguy2 · Since 22 Feb 2009 89 Posts

In light of the recent postings on safety (and as a beginner) it would be great to hear more specifics on safety other than "Be Safe"

So, here's what I think I know so far.

-Don't fly a kite that will overpower you.
-Don't launch where there are obstacles downwind (sandbar okay in that regard?)
-When on the beach, land your kite
-When walking your launched kite, fly it at the side (not the top) of the wind window
-Wear a helmet
-Practice releasing your chicken loop

What else?

Bettyboarder · Thu Jun 25, 09 10:33 am

Only let people who kite land/launch you.
Be aware of whats going on around you (weather, barges, pirate ships)
Check your leash often it will jam with sand and not release

cosmodog · Since 06 Oct 2005 205 Posts Stoked

When launching and landing, attach your kite leash to a point that will flag or fully depower your kite. If you have a bridle wrap or line problem, attaching to the chicken loop may NOT depower the kite and then you will be forced to pull 2 releases.

FlyDunes · Since 09 Oct 2007 1034 Posts Aloha XTreme Poster

chanson · Since 31 Jan 2006 1874 Posts WISCONSIN Chimey

Sella · Thu Jun 25, 09 12:21 pm

Know all self-rescue techniques and practice them in deep water. There is nothing like real-time in the water to help turn the "light on" for you.

If you don't know what they are take a 1-hour refresher rescue lesson from an instructor. Trust me, a few key tips will keep you calm and get you back to shore.

Also, time on the kite. Fly small 4 lines kites as much as possible until you fly with the touch of your fingertips.

Last, in respect to Fokiten......realize shit will happen and you must respect the wind and changing weather conditions. In this sport there is no such thing as being 100% safe at all times. Recent and past tragedies were predominately all accomplished riders. RIP.

mschulz · Since 29 May 2007 530 Posts Reno, NV Addicted

1-Dump the leash and learn to body drag.
2-Write your name and number on your gear.
3-Have fun.....

The minnow · Since 26 Jan 2009 395 Posts argentina Obsessed

Reaper356 · Since 10 Dec 2006 781 Posts Salem / LC Oregon Opinionated

Clipping into the steering lines is very good, but it's NOT a surefire safety. In my experience, Velcro on Best O'Shit handles combined with twists equals an ass whooping.
- Don't fasten the velcro so it's super tight around your steering lines.
- Be ready in sketch situations.

You can see the best setup here: They have a two piece velcro fastener around the lines.
http://staff.extremekites.com.au/joel/forum_posts/2008/BEST_kiteboarding_2008_bar.jpg

Tommy · Thu Jun 25, 09 5:46 pm

fokiten · Since 04 Mar 2005 188 Posts Stoked

On the Best o' shite handle--too bitey Velcro problem:

Take a lighter, or better yet a soldering iron and melt about half of the bitey stuff smooth;

Do a little at a time, one of mine won't stay now but that's better than won't let go...

launch in the good air, and just bail if it luffs and falls back in the window--starting over is not that big a deal...and much better than getting flung.
fo

$ociopath · Since 28 Nov 2007 523 Posts Twilight Zone Addicted

I think I may have mentioned this before but on your slingy bars make sure the depower rope is in the cleat. Don't trust the knob as the end of your rope as it may pull off and you will be swimming.

pdxmonkeyboy · Thu Jun 25, 09 9:10 pm

Rotor kills. Beware the ROTOR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!