All forms of power kiting (including landboarding, buggying, kitesurfing/kiteboarding , Kiteboating and snowkiting) are extreme sports and are therefore potentially dangerous to both the participant and others. The BKSA encourages responsible and considerate members.

Although flying and riding spots differ and local considerations will apply, the guidelines below will be relevant and appropriate in most situations.

The BKSA recommends that you hold third party insurance and have undertaken proper lessons from a qualified instructor or you are competent to BKSA level 2 if a qualification exists for the sport. Attempting to self teach yourself is not recommended.

All power kite sports

· Be sure that you can handle the prevailing weather conditions and know the forecast.
· Select the correct kite size for the conditions and forecast. If you don't have an appropriately sized kite, don't take a risk with the wrong size.
· Kite with a buddy or, if that is not possible, tell someone where you are and when you will be back.
· Select a safe launch site. Find out about and observe local rules and restrictions. Treat other stakeholders in the places we fly with respect.
· If at all possible, avoid asking a non-kiter to assist with launching and landing. If you must ask for help, make sure they are carefully briefed and understand the risks of getting involved.
· Extra care should be taken when spots are busy. On occasions, it might be too busy to launch safely unless a specific launch area is in operation.
· Prevent kites from re-launching with sand (or other ballast) to weigh them down.
· Keep your lines away from people, animals and craft on land or water. Wind up your lines if leaving your kite. Do not leave your equipment unattended on the beach for an extended period.
· It is recommend that a helmet or quality head protector that fits correctly is worn at all times while using kites. An appropriate helmet may reduce the risk of death or injury. Consider carefully the extra risk you may be taking if you decide not to wear one.

Powerkiting and Kite land-boarding , Kitebuggying and Snowkiting

· Be extra careful when selecting where and when to jump or perform tricks on land.
· Take care of other stakeholders give them respect , rights of way
· Make sure the activity is allowed at the location used
· Take time to educate other stakeholders

Kitesurfing and Kiteboating specific guidelines

· The BKSA recommend you are a competent swimmer. Never ride so far away from the shore that you cannot swim back in an emergency.
· Understand the tides/currents where you are about to sail.
· Observe beach and water zoning, navigation channels and similar.
· Unless dedicated rescue cover is available do not sail in offshore winds. If in doubt don't go out.
· All riders should be familiar with rescue signals and practice self-rescue pack down manoeuvres when undergoing kitesurfing instruction with a qualified BKSA instructor.

Rights of way

· The rider on the port tack gives way the rider on starboard tack.
· The upwind rider gives way to the downwind rider.
· The overtaking rider keeps clear.
· The rider leaving the beach has right of way over a rider riding into the beach.
· Before jumping check behind and downwind of you – maintain a safe distance, erring on the side of caution.

Equipment

· All manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines must be read and followed. Understand the limitations of the products.
· Equipment must be regularly checked for wear and tear and repaired before use. If in doubt seek advice from an authorised dealer, approved BKSA instructor or a more experienced local rider.
· Always use an effective kite leash and safety system so you can depower your kite instantly in the event of an emergency.

General Safety Guidelines

· If you lose your kite or board whilst on the water or land , always report you are safe to the rescue services so they do not waste time and money looking for you. It is recommended that you write your name, address and contact number on all your equipment.
· If new or careless kiters show up, talk to them with your friends about what´s at risk. Take the time to explain how to safely get into the sport, and where to obtain adequate and professional instruction.

In conclusion

All Kitesport users are responsible for their own safety and that of affected bystanders. Just because we´ve taken the care to publish this voluntary Code of Conduct we cannot be held liable for your actions. This Code of Conduct will be updated regularly as a result of continued developments in safety and kitesports equipment, consultation with local focus groups and other interested parties.
This is by no means a final and definitive list of safety guidelines.

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We welcome all members of the BKSA to feedback safety guidelines to the association