ricki
07-08-2011, 08:26 AM
The FKA has turned 10 years old and what a lot of changes have happened in the last decade. Countless sessions, discoveries and fun times, some tough ones too of course. Despite all the experience and lessons of the years, we still have threats to access, gear is a great deal safer than it once was, even we are (at times). Here's to another ten years of great times on the water!
The first post made on our old yahoogroups site (reproduced below) dealt with proposed kitesurfing guidelines. Not everything proposed back then works nor is still appropriate with changes in gear and knowledge. Still, some of the things proposed ten years ago sure would have saved some pain, lost access and hassles in many areas since that time.
What do you think and what do you remember over the last decade of kiting? Where is kitesurfing going from here?
Best Regards,
Rick Iossi
I have replied to the first post made on this forum in June 1, 2001 from http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/FKSA/ (now inactive for new post typically but used for archive purposes)
--- In FKSA@yahoogroups.com, "Rick Iossi" <flkitesurfer@...> wrote:
>
> I am happy to announce that we have two more area coordinators, Michael in
> Pensacola of sea-sky-sports and Jay in Cocoa Beach of Aqua Air. Welcome
> aboard guys! Also, the FKA has its own list on Yahoogroups.com under the
> Florida Kitesurfing Association at FKSA@yahoogroups.com I have made
> duplicate posts of this to that list. I have recieved some input on the
> original draft and have made some limited changes in the guidelines.
> Hopefully more comments will be forthcoming with either acceptance or
> suggested changes. I have also put together an application, sort of.
> Unfortunately, potential legal issues figure in our organizational process.
> Properly undertaken, it would appear that the FKA should be formed as a
> non-profit organization or possibly as a corporation. While we are deciding
> on and dealing with that process, I thought that I would get the ball
> rolling by at least spreading the word, (guidelines) and securing potential
> member information in a database. This approach is a bit more complicated
> but at least it can be started now and not at some vague point in the
> future.
>
> What do you think?
> Rick
>
> FLORIDA KITESURFING ASSOCIATION
>
> DRAFT KITESURFING GUIDELINES
>
> June 1, 2001
>
> Kitesurfing is an exciting new sport in its infancy worldwide at this time.
> Properly performed in light to moderate wind conditions, kitesurfing can be
> a relatively safe sport. Alternatively, under certain more intense weather
> conditions or if improperly performed, it can be a potentially dangerous,
> extreme sport which may be hazardous to the kitesurfer as well as possibly
> to bystanders. Responsibility for the safety of the kitesurfer and
> bystanders lies solely with the kitesurfer. This set of guidelines has been
> prepared as an aid to attempt to improve the safety and continuance of the
> sport in Florida but is by no means a complete listing of suitable
> procedures or precautions which may help to maintain the safety of the
> kitesurfer and bystanders. It is of vital importance that the kitesurfer
> undergo appropriate training, exercise sound judgement and maintain proper
> control of his gear at all times to attempt to insure both his safety and
> that of bystanders. The Florida Kitesurfing Association, (FKA) recommends
> that Kitesurfing should not be attempted without appropriate instruction.
> FKA members should be thoroughly familiar with and routinely practice these
> guidelines and other appropriate procedures. These guidelines do not
> necessarily incorporate local regulations, therefore the kitesurfer should
> become fully aware of local restrictions and guidelines, if any, prior to
> kitesurfing. Kitesurfing should be practiced safely with careful
> forethought and common sense. Ultimately we are individually responsible for
> minimizing risk to ourselves, others, and for assuring our great sports
> continuance into the future.
>
> GENERAL GUIDELINES
>
> GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
>
> 1. Never kitesurf in conditions which are too extreme for either you or your
> equipment.
>
> 2. Know your limits. Assess conditions, layout and potential eventualities
> to avoid getting into bad situations.
>
> 3. A kite leash that will depower a released kite and a board leash must be
> worn at all times when your kite is in the air.
>
> 4. Check your gear before and after every session, replace any worn or
> damaged parts
> before going out.
>
> 5. Don't fly a leaking or damaged kite; if in doubt don't go out. Always
> taking a repair kit is a smart idea.
>
> 6. BE COURTEOUS AND RESPECT THE LIFEGUARDS, PARK OFFICIALS, COAST GUARD AND
> OTHER PUBLIC AUTHORITIES. If they request that you stop kitesurfing please
> comply, find out the reasons (without arguing), and then bring them to the
> Florida Kitesurfing Association.
>
> 7. Read and adhere to manufacturer instructions and safety guidelines, in
> particular the limitations of the product.
>
> 8. Only kitesurf as far from the beach as you are able to swim in. Remember
> that you will be fatigued from kitesurfing and that this distance may be
> shorter than if you were fully rested.
> 9. Learn and practice self rescues by stowing your kite paddling or swimming
> back to shore and by sailing back using the kite as a sail on the water.
> 10. Kitesurf with at least one other person. Always let someone know where
> you are going, and when you intend to return.
> 11. Use brightly colored lines and kites when possible, and consider wearing
> bright wetsuits or other clothing.
> 12. Stay clear of power lines and overhead obstructions.
> 13. Never fly a kite in, prior to or shortly after a potential lightning
> storm or in other unstable weather.
>
> 14. Avoid hooking in as much as possible while still on land. If possible
> launch the kite from the water.
>
> 15. Avoid launching and landing on public beaches.
>
>
> SUGGESTED SAFETY EQUIPMENT
>
> 1. A windsurfing/kitesurfing harness.
> 2. A whistle to signal to approaching boats, kitesurfers or windsurfers when
> you are down in the water, or when your lines are down.
> 3. A PFD (lifejacket), gloves, hook knife and helmet.
>
>
> BYSTANDER PRECAUTIONS
>
> 1. Always give way to the public on the beach when about to launch and
> inform them of the
> Danger as few onlookers realize the possibility of injury. Be patient and
> particularly courteous and cautious. Kitesurfing is a highly visible and
> interesting activity. Use the interest you generate to inspire not outrage.
>
> 2. Always give way to the public on the beach when about to launch and
> inform them of the
> Danger as few onlookers realize the possibility of injury.
>
> 3. Posting of precautionary signs with appropriate warnings and instructions
> for bystanders is encouraged where permitted.
>
> 4. No person shall launch or land a kite if there is anybody present or
> moving between themselves and their kite, or where their kite might land; or
> in an are 90 degrees in either direction of downwind, between themselves and
> their kite, or where their kite might land.
>
> 5. Only fly and/or launch your kite in areas where you are able to maintain
> a 200' safety zone downwind of you that has no obstructions, including
> people. If anyone or thing enters this zone, immediately fly your kite to
> the overhead neutral zone until the obstruction is clear. If you are unable
> to consistently maintain this safety zone then land and collect your kite
> until you are in a position that is safe to re-launch.
>
> 6. Always properly anchor your kite, take off at least one line from the
> control bar and roll your lines when not in use. This helps to avoid
> tangles and also avoids inadvertent launch by dogs or children playing
> nearby.
>
> 7. Do not launch or land on a crowded beach.
>
> 8. Do not lay kite lines across any ones path.
>
> 9. Give way to all other water users, especially sailing boats involved in
> racing, and powerboats, as they will not know whether to give way to you or
> not.
>
> 10. Always announce when you are about to launch your kite so people can be
> prepared to move in the event of a gust or problem.
>
> 11. If someone attempts to grab your kite or lines, firmly instruct them to
> stay well away from the kite and lines, repeatedly if necessary.
>
>
> SETUP, LAUNCHING AND LANDING
>
> 1. Select a safe, open and uncrowded launching and landing sites.
>
> 2. Stay clear of power lines, overhead obstructions, trees and vertical
> surfaces where strong updrafts may be generated.
>
> 3. Pre flight check, make a routine check before every launch, i.e. kite,
> bridle, lines, safeties,
> harness, etc. a tangled kite with the lines twisted can take off and give
> you only semi
> control.
>
> 4. A spotter or helper should be available to help safely launch kite and
> keep area momentarily clear.
>
> 5. Attach kite safety leash (DO NOT ATTACH BOARD LEASH until kite is
> launched
> and in the neutral position)
>
> 6. Always prevent kites from inadvertent launching on the beach by weighting
> with sand.
>
> 7. Never leave a kite in the self-launch position unless you are about to
> take off.
>
> 8. Always announce when you are about to launch your kite so people can be
> prepared to
> move in the event of a gust or problem.
>
> 9. Disable an unattended kite by removing one of the lines, then placing the
> kite, leading
> edge down, facing the wind, and weighting with sand or a board.
>
> 10. ABSOLUTELY NO BEACH JUMPING or extended kite flying on the beach!!
>
> 11. Prevent kites from re-launching with sand (or other appropriate ballast)
> to weight it down.
>
> 12. Only fly and/or launch your kite in areas where you are able to maintain
> a 200' safety zone downwind of you that has no obstructions, including
> people. If anyone or thing enters this zone, immediately fly your kite to
> the overhead neutral zone until the obstruction is clear. If you are unable
> to consistently maintain this safety zone then land and collect your kite
> until you are in a position that is safe to re-launch.
>
> 13. Only fly your kite over water. If you must launch from land, do so and
> then move directly to the water. If you must walk your kite upwind, only do
> so where the kite can be flown over the water and where you can maintain the
> 200' safety zone. If you need to walk upwind, and you cannot meet these
> guidelines, land your kite in the water and carry it.
>
> 14. If lulls occur and/or kite stalling is likely, the kite should be flown
> in "figure eights" overhead to maintain sufficient forward kite speed to
> avoid kite stalling and falling.
> 15. Whenever possible land your kite in the water unless you have an
> experienced assistant who can "catch" your kite for a landing out of water.
> If you see someone ready to launch please help them.
> 16. Announce when you are launching your kite by loudly saying, "LAUNCHING."
>
>
> KITESURFING
>
> 1. Never kite surf in congested areas with swimmers, boats or other craft or
> obstacles.
>
> 2. Always maintain a " 200 foot downwind safety buffer zone" when on the
> water, and on the beach.
>
> 3. Leave the beach in a slow and controlled manner
>
> 4. Beginners body drag 50 feet or more out before putting on their board and
> water starting
>
> 5. Keep Windsurfers outside of the wind window or powercone of the kite. If
> approaching windsurfers head on clearly signal your intent to pass on the
> downwind side of the windsurfer.
>
> 6. Incoming Kitesurfer to give way to outgoing kitesurfer at all times.
>
> 7. When passing another kitesurfer going in the opposite direction, the
> windward kitesurfer
> is to fly their kite higher and the downwind kitesurfer to bring their kite
> down low to avoid
> tangles. If necessary, stop and fly your kite to neutral until the
> kitesurfer or other water user passes.
>
> 8. Do not go for big jumps when you are within 200 feet upwind of another
> water user to avoid potential collisions or the appearance of potential
> collision.
>
> 9. Jumping kitesurfers sacrifice right away. Don't jump in shallow water.
>
> 10. If two kitesurfers converge, the kitesurfer on port tack or upwind (with
> the wind blowing over the left side of their board relative to their
> direction of travel) must give way to the kitesurfer on starboard tack
>
> 11. Yield right away to ALL other water users
>
> 12. DO NOT COME WITHIN 200� OF THE BEACH OR SWIM AREAS UNLESS LAUNCHING OR
> LANDING!! Strictly stay beyond swimming area marking bouys at all times
> except when landing within designated areas.
>
> 13. If you need help put arm staight over your head. If ok on the outside
> and don't need help
> and observed by public safety personal or other concerned parties, put one
> hand on top of head in the international scuba diving sign of "OK".
> 14. Kitesurfers returning to the beach give way to kitesurfers leaving the
> beach (kitesurfers leaving the beach have the right of way).
> 15. Kitesurfers passing someone must give way to the person they are passing
> (kitesurfers being passed have the right of way).
> 16. Whenever possible, please kitesurf in an area away from windsurfers and
> boats.
> 17. ALWAYS KITESURF IN AREAS AWAY FROM SWIMMERS
>
> 18. Always look downwind before every jump or turn.
>
> 19. Approach the shore slowly with caution. Take care to avoid causing an
> accidental jump by slowing suddenly while approaching the shore.
>
>
> PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER INSTRUCTIONS AND PRECAUTIONS
>
> 1. Procedure for securing a run-away kite.
>
> 2. Procedure for rescuing a kitesurfer at sea.
>
> 3. Bystander precautions.
>
> AREA SPECIFIC GUIDELINES
>
> 1. Observe all mapped kitesurfing boundaries. Launch kites only from
> designated area
>
> 2. Beginner kitesurfers are encouraged to kitesurf in ???
>
> 3. (Insert other guidelines or regulations which apply to the local
> launches)
>
>
> This is by no means a final and definitive list of safety guidelines. This
> sport is in its infancy and is still evolving. We welcome all members of
> the FKA to provide feedback on safety guidelines to the association.
>
>
> Florida Kitesurfing Association
>
> Database information
>
> Full Name ..
>
> Address ..
>
> City .. State Zip code ..
>
> Normal kitesurfing locations (cities):
>
> Phone Fax
>
> Email .
>
> Indemnity
>
> I partake in the sport of Kitesurfing of my own free will, have read,
> understand and agree to properly practice the FKA kitesurfing guidelines and
> other appropriate procedures and further wish to be listed in the FKA
> database with the full understanding of the inherent dangers and risks
> associated with the sport of Kitesurfing. As a part of the FKA database I
> understand that I will receive periodic information on kitesurfing issues in
> Florida and may be called upon to lend support on public issues related to
> kitesurfing. I understand that the FKA is in the process of organizing and
> a signed membership application will be required in the future to achieve
> membership. I further understand that the guidelines may be modified from
> time to time and agree to read the revisions and properly practice them and
> other appropriate procedures. By completing and emailing this form to the
> FKA, I indemnify anyone connected with the FKA from any responsibility for
> any damage incurred to any property, injury to any person, or any legal
> action arising from my use of power kites, either socially or at any
> organized events, whether it be on land or water.
>
> Agreed (name) .. Dated .
>
> Thanks for taking the time to sign up for the Florida Kitesurfing
> Association. Kitesurfer database. It is important for us to have a united
> voice, to be self regulatory and be seen as being responsible and proactive
> members of the community. This will be of extreme importance when
> kitesurfing at public surf beaches and on any waterway used by other members
> of the public. It is up to you to make this sport and the association as
> great and safe as it can be. We all love this sport and your participation
> in this association can go a long way towards achieving this objective.
>
>
> __________________________________________________ _______________
> Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com
>
The first post made on our old yahoogroups site (reproduced below) dealt with proposed kitesurfing guidelines. Not everything proposed back then works nor is still appropriate with changes in gear and knowledge. Still, some of the things proposed ten years ago sure would have saved some pain, lost access and hassles in many areas since that time.
What do you think and what do you remember over the last decade of kiting? Where is kitesurfing going from here?
Best Regards,
Rick Iossi
I have replied to the first post made on this forum in June 1, 2001 from http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/FKSA/ (now inactive for new post typically but used for archive purposes)
--- In FKSA@yahoogroups.com, "Rick Iossi" <flkitesurfer@...> wrote:
>
> I am happy to announce that we have two more area coordinators, Michael in
> Pensacola of sea-sky-sports and Jay in Cocoa Beach of Aqua Air. Welcome
> aboard guys! Also, the FKA has its own list on Yahoogroups.com under the
> Florida Kitesurfing Association at FKSA@yahoogroups.com I have made
> duplicate posts of this to that list. I have recieved some input on the
> original draft and have made some limited changes in the guidelines.
> Hopefully more comments will be forthcoming with either acceptance or
> suggested changes. I have also put together an application, sort of.
> Unfortunately, potential legal issues figure in our organizational process.
> Properly undertaken, it would appear that the FKA should be formed as a
> non-profit organization or possibly as a corporation. While we are deciding
> on and dealing with that process, I thought that I would get the ball
> rolling by at least spreading the word, (guidelines) and securing potential
> member information in a database. This approach is a bit more complicated
> but at least it can be started now and not at some vague point in the
> future.
>
> What do you think?
> Rick
>
> FLORIDA KITESURFING ASSOCIATION
>
> DRAFT KITESURFING GUIDELINES
>
> June 1, 2001
>
> Kitesurfing is an exciting new sport in its infancy worldwide at this time.
> Properly performed in light to moderate wind conditions, kitesurfing can be
> a relatively safe sport. Alternatively, under certain more intense weather
> conditions or if improperly performed, it can be a potentially dangerous,
> extreme sport which may be hazardous to the kitesurfer as well as possibly
> to bystanders. Responsibility for the safety of the kitesurfer and
> bystanders lies solely with the kitesurfer. This set of guidelines has been
> prepared as an aid to attempt to improve the safety and continuance of the
> sport in Florida but is by no means a complete listing of suitable
> procedures or precautions which may help to maintain the safety of the
> kitesurfer and bystanders. It is of vital importance that the kitesurfer
> undergo appropriate training, exercise sound judgement and maintain proper
> control of his gear at all times to attempt to insure both his safety and
> that of bystanders. The Florida Kitesurfing Association, (FKA) recommends
> that Kitesurfing should not be attempted without appropriate instruction.
> FKA members should be thoroughly familiar with and routinely practice these
> guidelines and other appropriate procedures. These guidelines do not
> necessarily incorporate local regulations, therefore the kitesurfer should
> become fully aware of local restrictions and guidelines, if any, prior to
> kitesurfing. Kitesurfing should be practiced safely with careful
> forethought and common sense. Ultimately we are individually responsible for
> minimizing risk to ourselves, others, and for assuring our great sports
> continuance into the future.
>
> GENERAL GUIDELINES
>
> GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
>
> 1. Never kitesurf in conditions which are too extreme for either you or your
> equipment.
>
> 2. Know your limits. Assess conditions, layout and potential eventualities
> to avoid getting into bad situations.
>
> 3. A kite leash that will depower a released kite and a board leash must be
> worn at all times when your kite is in the air.
>
> 4. Check your gear before and after every session, replace any worn or
> damaged parts
> before going out.
>
> 5. Don't fly a leaking or damaged kite; if in doubt don't go out. Always
> taking a repair kit is a smart idea.
>
> 6. BE COURTEOUS AND RESPECT THE LIFEGUARDS, PARK OFFICIALS, COAST GUARD AND
> OTHER PUBLIC AUTHORITIES. If they request that you stop kitesurfing please
> comply, find out the reasons (without arguing), and then bring them to the
> Florida Kitesurfing Association.
>
> 7. Read and adhere to manufacturer instructions and safety guidelines, in
> particular the limitations of the product.
>
> 8. Only kitesurf as far from the beach as you are able to swim in. Remember
> that you will be fatigued from kitesurfing and that this distance may be
> shorter than if you were fully rested.
> 9. Learn and practice self rescues by stowing your kite paddling or swimming
> back to shore and by sailing back using the kite as a sail on the water.
> 10. Kitesurf with at least one other person. Always let someone know where
> you are going, and when you intend to return.
> 11. Use brightly colored lines and kites when possible, and consider wearing
> bright wetsuits or other clothing.
> 12. Stay clear of power lines and overhead obstructions.
> 13. Never fly a kite in, prior to or shortly after a potential lightning
> storm or in other unstable weather.
>
> 14. Avoid hooking in as much as possible while still on land. If possible
> launch the kite from the water.
>
> 15. Avoid launching and landing on public beaches.
>
>
> SUGGESTED SAFETY EQUIPMENT
>
> 1. A windsurfing/kitesurfing harness.
> 2. A whistle to signal to approaching boats, kitesurfers or windsurfers when
> you are down in the water, or when your lines are down.
> 3. A PFD (lifejacket), gloves, hook knife and helmet.
>
>
> BYSTANDER PRECAUTIONS
>
> 1. Always give way to the public on the beach when about to launch and
> inform them of the
> Danger as few onlookers realize the possibility of injury. Be patient and
> particularly courteous and cautious. Kitesurfing is a highly visible and
> interesting activity. Use the interest you generate to inspire not outrage.
>
> 2. Always give way to the public on the beach when about to launch and
> inform them of the
> Danger as few onlookers realize the possibility of injury.
>
> 3. Posting of precautionary signs with appropriate warnings and instructions
> for bystanders is encouraged where permitted.
>
> 4. No person shall launch or land a kite if there is anybody present or
> moving between themselves and their kite, or where their kite might land; or
> in an are 90 degrees in either direction of downwind, between themselves and
> their kite, or where their kite might land.
>
> 5. Only fly and/or launch your kite in areas where you are able to maintain
> a 200' safety zone downwind of you that has no obstructions, including
> people. If anyone or thing enters this zone, immediately fly your kite to
> the overhead neutral zone until the obstruction is clear. If you are unable
> to consistently maintain this safety zone then land and collect your kite
> until you are in a position that is safe to re-launch.
>
> 6. Always properly anchor your kite, take off at least one line from the
> control bar and roll your lines when not in use. This helps to avoid
> tangles and also avoids inadvertent launch by dogs or children playing
> nearby.
>
> 7. Do not launch or land on a crowded beach.
>
> 8. Do not lay kite lines across any ones path.
>
> 9. Give way to all other water users, especially sailing boats involved in
> racing, and powerboats, as they will not know whether to give way to you or
> not.
>
> 10. Always announce when you are about to launch your kite so people can be
> prepared to move in the event of a gust or problem.
>
> 11. If someone attempts to grab your kite or lines, firmly instruct them to
> stay well away from the kite and lines, repeatedly if necessary.
>
>
> SETUP, LAUNCHING AND LANDING
>
> 1. Select a safe, open and uncrowded launching and landing sites.
>
> 2. Stay clear of power lines, overhead obstructions, trees and vertical
> surfaces where strong updrafts may be generated.
>
> 3. Pre flight check, make a routine check before every launch, i.e. kite,
> bridle, lines, safeties,
> harness, etc. a tangled kite with the lines twisted can take off and give
> you only semi
> control.
>
> 4. A spotter or helper should be available to help safely launch kite and
> keep area momentarily clear.
>
> 5. Attach kite safety leash (DO NOT ATTACH BOARD LEASH until kite is
> launched
> and in the neutral position)
>
> 6. Always prevent kites from inadvertent launching on the beach by weighting
> with sand.
>
> 7. Never leave a kite in the self-launch position unless you are about to
> take off.
>
> 8. Always announce when you are about to launch your kite so people can be
> prepared to
> move in the event of a gust or problem.
>
> 9. Disable an unattended kite by removing one of the lines, then placing the
> kite, leading
> edge down, facing the wind, and weighting with sand or a board.
>
> 10. ABSOLUTELY NO BEACH JUMPING or extended kite flying on the beach!!
>
> 11. Prevent kites from re-launching with sand (or other appropriate ballast)
> to weight it down.
>
> 12. Only fly and/or launch your kite in areas where you are able to maintain
> a 200' safety zone downwind of you that has no obstructions, including
> people. If anyone or thing enters this zone, immediately fly your kite to
> the overhead neutral zone until the obstruction is clear. If you are unable
> to consistently maintain this safety zone then land and collect your kite
> until you are in a position that is safe to re-launch.
>
> 13. Only fly your kite over water. If you must launch from land, do so and
> then move directly to the water. If you must walk your kite upwind, only do
> so where the kite can be flown over the water and where you can maintain the
> 200' safety zone. If you need to walk upwind, and you cannot meet these
> guidelines, land your kite in the water and carry it.
>
> 14. If lulls occur and/or kite stalling is likely, the kite should be flown
> in "figure eights" overhead to maintain sufficient forward kite speed to
> avoid kite stalling and falling.
> 15. Whenever possible land your kite in the water unless you have an
> experienced assistant who can "catch" your kite for a landing out of water.
> If you see someone ready to launch please help them.
> 16. Announce when you are launching your kite by loudly saying, "LAUNCHING."
>
>
> KITESURFING
>
> 1. Never kite surf in congested areas with swimmers, boats or other craft or
> obstacles.
>
> 2. Always maintain a " 200 foot downwind safety buffer zone" when on the
> water, and on the beach.
>
> 3. Leave the beach in a slow and controlled manner
>
> 4. Beginners body drag 50 feet or more out before putting on their board and
> water starting
>
> 5. Keep Windsurfers outside of the wind window or powercone of the kite. If
> approaching windsurfers head on clearly signal your intent to pass on the
> downwind side of the windsurfer.
>
> 6. Incoming Kitesurfer to give way to outgoing kitesurfer at all times.
>
> 7. When passing another kitesurfer going in the opposite direction, the
> windward kitesurfer
> is to fly their kite higher and the downwind kitesurfer to bring their kite
> down low to avoid
> tangles. If necessary, stop and fly your kite to neutral until the
> kitesurfer or other water user passes.
>
> 8. Do not go for big jumps when you are within 200 feet upwind of another
> water user to avoid potential collisions or the appearance of potential
> collision.
>
> 9. Jumping kitesurfers sacrifice right away. Don't jump in shallow water.
>
> 10. If two kitesurfers converge, the kitesurfer on port tack or upwind (with
> the wind blowing over the left side of their board relative to their
> direction of travel) must give way to the kitesurfer on starboard tack
>
> 11. Yield right away to ALL other water users
>
> 12. DO NOT COME WITHIN 200� OF THE BEACH OR SWIM AREAS UNLESS LAUNCHING OR
> LANDING!! Strictly stay beyond swimming area marking bouys at all times
> except when landing within designated areas.
>
> 13. If you need help put arm staight over your head. If ok on the outside
> and don't need help
> and observed by public safety personal or other concerned parties, put one
> hand on top of head in the international scuba diving sign of "OK".
> 14. Kitesurfers returning to the beach give way to kitesurfers leaving the
> beach (kitesurfers leaving the beach have the right of way).
> 15. Kitesurfers passing someone must give way to the person they are passing
> (kitesurfers being passed have the right of way).
> 16. Whenever possible, please kitesurf in an area away from windsurfers and
> boats.
> 17. ALWAYS KITESURF IN AREAS AWAY FROM SWIMMERS
>
> 18. Always look downwind before every jump or turn.
>
> 19. Approach the shore slowly with caution. Take care to avoid causing an
> accidental jump by slowing suddenly while approaching the shore.
>
>
> PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER INSTRUCTIONS AND PRECAUTIONS
>
> 1. Procedure for securing a run-away kite.
>
> 2. Procedure for rescuing a kitesurfer at sea.
>
> 3. Bystander precautions.
>
> AREA SPECIFIC GUIDELINES
>
> 1. Observe all mapped kitesurfing boundaries. Launch kites only from
> designated area
>
> 2. Beginner kitesurfers are encouraged to kitesurf in ???
>
> 3. (Insert other guidelines or regulations which apply to the local
> launches)
>
>
> This is by no means a final and definitive list of safety guidelines. This
> sport is in its infancy and is still evolving. We welcome all members of
> the FKA to provide feedback on safety guidelines to the association.
>
>
> Florida Kitesurfing Association
>
> Database information
>
> Full Name ..
>
> Address ..
>
> City .. State Zip code ..
>
> Normal kitesurfing locations (cities):
>
> Phone Fax
>
> Email .
>
> Indemnity
>
> I partake in the sport of Kitesurfing of my own free will, have read,
> understand and agree to properly practice the FKA kitesurfing guidelines and
> other appropriate procedures and further wish to be listed in the FKA
> database with the full understanding of the inherent dangers and risks
> associated with the sport of Kitesurfing. As a part of the FKA database I
> understand that I will receive periodic information on kitesurfing issues in
> Florida and may be called upon to lend support on public issues related to
> kitesurfing. I understand that the FKA is in the process of organizing and
> a signed membership application will be required in the future to achieve
> membership. I further understand that the guidelines may be modified from
> time to time and agree to read the revisions and properly practice them and
> other appropriate procedures. By completing and emailing this form to the
> FKA, I indemnify anyone connected with the FKA from any responsibility for
> any damage incurred to any property, injury to any person, or any legal
> action arising from my use of power kites, either socially or at any
> organized events, whether it be on land or water.
>
> Agreed (name) .. Dated .
>
> Thanks for taking the time to sign up for the Florida Kitesurfing
> Association. Kitesurfer database. It is important for us to have a united
> voice, to be self regulatory and be seen as being responsible and proactive
> members of the community. This will be of extreme importance when
> kitesurfing at public surf beaches and on any waterway used by other members
> of the public. It is up to you to make this sport and the association as
> great and safe as it can be. We all love this sport and your participation
> in this association can go a long way towards achieving this objective.
>
>
> __________________________________________________ _______________
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>