March 18, 2006

Pakistan has been troubled by many serious kite injuries and even kite flying related deaths during the spring holiday period. In addition, serious power outages causing economic disadvantage have been frequently caused by the kites and lines creating short circuits in the power grid. Some kite flyers have also been electrocuted trying to rescue kites tangled in power lines.

Responding to several petitions to lift the ban on kite flying for the holiday period in Pakistan, the Supreme Court decided to temporarily permit kite flying for fifteen days. Unfortunately, while with the lifting of the ban kite flying gained momentum but at the same time kite flying rituals claimed several lives in different cities of Pakistan while seriously injuring many others.

Kite flying is loads of fun, but safety needs to come first in order to keep it a protected and joyful experience. With knowledge and common sense, the dangers can be avoided.

Dangers to others

Striking someone — Sport kites have hard parts and move very fast, especially in stronger wind. If a kite strikes someone it can result in minor ro permanent injury, or death in the worst scenario.

Striking a vehicle — Potential serious injury to driver and or passengers may occur due to the distraction of the driver, causing other accidents, or damage to the vehicle. You should take care not to fly in an area where any vehicles including cars, bicycles, or even aircraft of any kind, may cross your flying area.

Control lines cutting someone — Sport kite lines are strong, thin and under tension. If the lines sweep across a person it can cause cuts or friction burns ranging from minor to fatal. You’ve probably heard it before, but now you know why it’s important. Always be aware and careful of the people around your flying area. This includes someone who may be helping you with your kites.

Dangers to yourself

Catching on a moving vehicle — If the kite gets caught on a moving vehicle, the control lines could drag you to the ground, causing harm or death.

Pulling too strongly — Sport kites in strong winds have the power to pull you to the ground and drag you downwind, potentially causing loss of life. Stronger winds increase this danger. Stop flying when conditions become unpredictable. Always choose smooth flying areas free from objects on the ground that could make falls more dangerous.

Contacting power lines — Electricity may be conducted towards the flier resulting in serious injury or death. Never fly near overhead power lines of any kind. Never attempt to disentangle any kite from any overhead lines.

Accidents — Children often run after a falling kite without looking around and come on the road;they may be hit by a passing vehicle. There have also been incidents where people, usually children, have fallen from roof top while carelessly pursuing a kite. Care should be taken not to fly from roof tops especially those without walls.

Handling broken kite parts — Broken kite parts can be extremely sharp. Handling them can cause injury. Avoid directly handling broken parts whenever possible. When you must touch a broken part, work slowly and carefully and wear sturdy, protective gloves.

Where to fly

Flying space should be a clear, open area. Stay away from roads, power lines or airports. Open fields, parks and beaches are great for flying kites. The more room you have, the more line you can let out.

Remember that as the wind goes over and around trees and buildings, it gets bumpy and difficult to fly kites.

Safety measures

Most important of all: do not use metallic threads as they are dangerous for you and those around you.

As a kite flier, you are responsible for your safety and that of others around you.