KiteSmart Australia Safety Guide

Your safety is important to us. Please review this information before flying your kite.  While this information is to our knowledge correct, KiteSmart Australia Pty Ltd cannot accept any responsibility for errors or omissions. If in doubt please check with your local authorities.

THE LAW:

You must not fly a kite more than 30 metres (100') above ground level within 5 kilometres (3 miles) of an airfield. You should avoid take off and landing flight paths.

Be aware of low flying police & rescue helicopters, micro-light aircraft, hang-gliders and para-gliders.

You must not fly a kite more than 60 metres (200') above ground level without special permission from the C,A,A (Kite festivals usually get special permission to fly much higher)

Local by-laws: You must not fly a kite as to create a public nuisance, this includes noise.  Some public places, e.g., parks, camp sites etc may have a ban on kite flying.

SAFETY:

Avoid overhead power lines at all times. Kite lines can conduct electricity and electricity can kill!

Avoid flying near roads, busy footpaths, railways, canals & rivers:

Choose an open, clear area for flying away from the public if possible. (Fast moving, diving or crashing kites and flying lines can hurt people).

Avoid flying in stormy, thundery weather, particularly on beaches. (lightning can strike or static electrical charges build up and run to earth down your line and through you, you may receive burns or worse)

Avoid flying near trees, they can entangle your kite & lines, and your kite may be impossible to retrieve.

Avoid flying too close to other kites to avoid tangled or cut lines, damaged kites and accidents.

Avoid startling pets and live-stock, particularly horses when being ridden.

Be aware of the dangers of tethering your kite, (this includes tethered inflatables). Always see that your anchor is secure and clearly visible. Never leave a tethered kite unattended, always be ready to take control.

Be aware of the pull, lift and speed of some large single line kites and many multi-line sport kites.

Do not fly in winds that are too strong for those recommended for your kite, and make sure that all knots, clips, and spars are secure and that your line is suitable for the wind conditions.

Do not fly in winds beyond your strength.

Do not run with your kite unless absolutely essential and be sure that the ground ahead is clear and fairly level.

Never leave any "waste" kite materials on the flying field: Always: pick up broken spars, clips, line etc, and take them home.

Supervise inexperienced flyers and children, SEEK INSTRUCTION before flying stunt and sport kites.

Do not  allow the line to wrap around fingers or limbs. Kite line can cut deeply and cause friction burns. Wear gloves to protect your hands.

Keep your feet clear of kite lines and tails on the ground.

Wear sun glasses or peaked cap to protect eyes in bright light. Protect yourself from exposure to the sun.

Kite Traction activities: Buggying participants must be aware of the increased, special risks involved in these activities for the public and themselves. Participants should take appropriate training and take all reasonable precautions to ensure safety at all times. (CHECK ON YOUR PERSONAL INSURANCE COVER)

Be aware that if your kite becomes entangled in power lines (apart from the serious dangers) you may cause power failures and receive a large bill for its removal.

Be aware that if you cause an accident you may be liable to pay out large sums of money in compensation.