The school recommends that you read the rules carefully. Firstly, please remember clearly that when you are in the water, you are sharing it with other kiters. If in doubt and you are approaching a potential collision, please ensure that you stop the kite so as to avoid any clutter or tangling of lines, which can damage the equipment, cause injuries, or at the very least eat up valuable kiting time. It is almost always possible to avoid accidents, if you react in advance. Remember that kiters of all levels are sharing the waters, including rookies who may not have as much control over their kites and boards, so be generous and conscientious.
As you will notice in the illustrations below, those who have the better viewing angles and experience should gives the right of way to those who have difficulty controlling their kites. Always be attentive to the movements of other kitesurfers.
Using logic is also important:
- If you are approaching the coast : keep in mind that any kitesurfer ahead of you will likely be turning around and will approach you shortly. Turn before s/he does to avoid possible contact.
- Always be alert of all that is around you. Boats, Jetskis and windsurfers can approach very quickly and give you a scare.
- When jumping, keep in mind that you might go quite high and far. Jump only if you have a large open area in front of you. This also applies to any tricks you might attempt. Keep in mind that if you make a mistake you will be dragged downwind, potenially at high speeds.
The port rules for boats and vessels are very clear. All boats are required to avoid contact with other vessels, and this means they will cede the way to less maneuverable crafts. This includes kitesurfers and windsurfers. However, it is advisable to get out of the way of any nearby boats regardless of who takes precedence. When in doubt, try changing your direction and making it clear what path you will take. These steps can make a big difference in ensuring a pleasant and safe experience.
Regarding surfers, sunbathers and swimmers:
No doubt, the kitesurfer should always avoid contact with other people enjoying the lake. Please note that accidents can lead to the prohibition of kitesurfing at the lake, so please take all precautions to avoid incidents. Respect any swimmers, boats and watercrafts out on the water.
NAVIGATION RULES
Compliance with safety rules by beginners and experts is essential for safe development of sport.
- Find a place with at least 150 feet free from obstructions such as trees, people, poles, power lines, roads, fences and animals
- Never hold flight lines or walk between them while kites are flying or are about to be raised. If necessary : warn swimmers and others.
- Never lift the kite during thunderstorms or heavy clouds. The equipment can become a perfect lightning rod.
- Try to know your limit and the kite’s optimal lift potential. It is very dangerous to use kite that are rated too high for your weight. ( overpowered ). The kite can lift you up many meters and if handled improperly can cause significant damage.
- If you are a beginner with do not raise the kite over land.
- Recommended protective equipment: helmet, life jacket, gloves, hook knife (to cut the lines in an emergency), neoprene clothing ( if you plan to be in the water for an extended period).
- Stay away from airports and heliports. In case of low flying aircrafts approaching : lower kite immediately, the pilot may not have seen the kite or its lines.
- Avoid being on land while attached / fixed to the harness bar. You can be dragged or lifted by the kite and may not have time to release the kite before impact. It is important to know the quick release systems for the kite.
- While in the water, watch for boats, rocks, and your own board, especially if it keel up as you can suffer cuts and other injuries in case of impact. You should also be very careful with semi submerged objects such as rocks, logs, roots and corals.
- Always have a partner who can observe you while kiting and and who help lift and lower the kite. Plan your activities: such as what is the safest way to lift the kite, where you should enter the water, what the wind direction and current direction may be, and potential exit points from the water.