Safety

First and foremost, safety has to be your number one priority. There are plenty of news stories where kites have been banned from certain areas because of unsafe actions. When it comes to safety, there are two types: yours and everyone else’s.

For your safety there are a few easy things to remember.

If there is any chance that you will move from the place that you are currently standing in, if you plan on jumps, or if you are on wheels, WEAR A HELMET. I have been involved in EMS (emergency medical services) for over 10 years and I can tell you that helmets make a difference.
It’s a good idea to look into knee pads and elbow pads as well. They don’t have to look that dorky and when you take a digger on the asphalt, you will be glad that you had them.
Kites have the potential to be powerful. Be aware that gusts can happen at any time.
Don’t ever take your eyes off your kite.
Most important: TAKE A LESSSON. They aren’t that much, they will get rid of your bad habits, and the value of what you learn will far outweigh the cost.

When flying your kite, you are responsible for everyone else’s safety around you as well.

Be aware of your surroundings. If you are flying your kite over a sidewalk or street, you should find a better place to be.
Kids don’t see the danger, they only see the “big cool kite” in the sky.
The kite lines can be under a great deal of tension. When you are flying your kite, the strings are moving fast. Contrary to Mythbusters, the lines can hurt someone.
Be considerate. If there is a field and people are playing on it, don’t roll out your kite and cause them stress.

Of course this isn’t a full list of everything you need to do to be safe. Generally speaking, just use your head. Be safe. Have fun. If you have any questions, drop us a line at mike@thekiteline.com.