HOW TO FLY YOUR KITE SAFELY:

Where to fly:

  • Never fly near power lines.
  • Find An Open Space
  • 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:

  • 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
  • Fastening yourself to your kite line can lead to painful, serious injuries.
  • Do not use blades or sharp objects on a kite or line.
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