Select an area that is clear of obstacles like houses, trees and traffic and stay away from ditches or steep slopes.
Beaches and parks are usually good locations, but remember that kites can crash so choose a spot where your kite won’t be damaged when it comes down.
Fly only where the kite will not create a hazard.
Never fly a kite near buildings, trees, roads or railway lines.
Make sure that your kite can not self launch while you are setting it up. Lay it on it’s back with some weight on top to stop it lifting.
Check your kite to make sure there are no broken or splintering spars and make sure that the bridle lines and flying lines are not frayed or worn.
Don’t leave kite lines unattended lying on the ground, they will be a trip hazard.
When to Fly:
Kites can be flown at any time of the year as long as the wind is ‘right’.
Never fly in rain or lightning.
Do not fly a kite on days when the wind is too strong for the type of kite you are flying. This will damage your kite and void any warranty.
Most kites should not be flown in more than 30 kph.
Wind direction and strength can change quickly. Keep an eye on the wind and your kite always.
We recommended that you know and understand the wind range that your kite is suited to.
Use the Beaufort wind scale to convert to the scale that you know.
BEAUFORT SCALE:
Knots
KpH
MpH
Wind Description
Scale
4-6
6-11
4-6
Leaves rustle
Light
7-10
12-20
8-12
Small flags fly
Gentle
11-16
20-29
13-18
Dust flies
Moderate
17-21
30-38
19-24
Trees sway-flying risky
Fresh
22-27
40-50
25-31
Trees bens-do not fly
Strong
Electricity:
Never fly near power lines
You could be killed or seriously injured if your kite gets tangles on high voltage power line
If your kite gets tangled in power line, drop the string to the ground and call your local power company for help. Do not try to get the kite down yourself
Never fly a kite during an approaching storm or in rain, Electricity in clouds is attracted to damp kite lines and you could get seriously hurt as a wet line will conduct electricity.
Do not use wire as flying line as wire conducts electricity (and is very sharp!)
Airports:
Special rules apply when flying within two miles of an airport.
Under Australian CASA regulations you are not allowed to fly more than 122 metres above ground level or within 4 kilometres of an airfield.
Check with your local authorities for any other restrictions that may be unique to your area and always observe local air safety regulations.
Large kites:
Big kites can be dangerous and require extra care. Wear gloves when flying large kites
A large kite can drag you. Always use a release system.
If using a harness to fly very large kites, make sure it is fitted with a quick release system.
String:
Do not use blades or sharp objects on a kite or line.
Never fly by holding the string. It is thin and will burn and it will cut. Fly only by holding the handle.
Do not let the line run through your fingers or hands at a fast rate- it will burn or cut you
Tying yourself to your kite line can lead to painful, serious injuries.
