[ricki]

Several things come to mind from this accident:

1. Never use new or unfamiliar gear in extreme conditions no matter how experienced you are.

2. Rider and helper must verify that lines and bridles are correct before releasing the kite. The kiter may not be able to see something like this during launch.

3. Avoid using kites near the upper end of the recommended wind range (32 kts. in this case) and never when new to the gear.

4. NOTE: Carefully evaluate where to attach your kite leash on flat kites, particularly when near shore. Reportedly, if attached to the Oh Shit Handle this kite will substantially depower, as long as the flight line doesn't break. If attached to the chicken loop as was done in this case, the depower may be disabled by breakage or snags. There are still other options with other kites, speak with manufacturer's reps if necessary. Spend some time on this and choose well.

5. Never grab a line attached to a powered up kite.

6. Rehearse mentally and physically dealing with a overpowered emergency by totally depowering the kite and finding and releasing the leash attachment to the kiter (should the later prove to be necessary in an emergency).

9. Always wear a good helmet, impact vest, hook knife, gloves and other gear as appropriate.

10. Always research where to ride before going to a beach. Preservation of access concerns us all.