sELF REscUE
It is
VERY IMPORTANT
that you take lessons with a competent and certified instructor
which will ensure safe self rescue.
REMEMBER: Safety is the number one priority.
Below are steps and tips on self rescue.
8 - MANIAc MANUAL
There are various circumstances that may occur and
require a self rescue (wind going offshore, sudden
and severe wind conditions, broken equipment,
dangerous situation etc.). Every rider should be well
versed in proper self rescue technique. To describe the
self rescue, the rider activated the Quick Release due
to a dangerous situation with the kite “flagging” on
one of the front lines.
STEP 1.
Activate the Quick Release on the harness loop. Please refer
to pg. 19 for steps on proper Quick Release activation. As the bar was
setup on “shool safety” or “stock” the kite will depower and “ flag” on
center line (figure 1).
STEP 2.
Take the ONE center line that you flagged the kite on and
slowly start pulling yourself towards the kite until you have reached
the bar. When you reach the bar, start wrapping the ONE center line
around the bar. Once you have wrapped approximately 15-20 ft.,
start wrapping the remaining three lines around the bar. This is to
ensure that your kite does not power up. You should be slowly moving
toward the depowered kite (figure 2). Although it is hard sometimes,
make sure NOT TO get tangled in your lines while wrapping. It is
suggested that you always carry a kite knife in case you do get tangled.
Remember to always watch the kite when winding up your lines. Be
prepared to immediately let go of everything if needed in case the
wind increases and powers up the kite.
STEP 3.
Once you have rolled up your lines to within half of the kites
length, tie the lines down on the bar using a simple knot.
STEP 4.
Grab hold of the kite (center of LE). Fold the kite in half and
work yourself down to the wing tips. Grab hold of the center line
bridles (figure 3).
STEP 5.
Position the kite in the direction of wind (assuming the wind
direction is towards shore) and sail in the kite in (figure 4).
STEP 6.
Sail the kite in until you reach the beach or a safe location
(figure 5). Be sure to secure your kite on the beach.
PLEASE NOTE:
Sometimes this method of self rescue will not work
(offshore winds etc.). If this is the case, follow Step 1- 4. Once you
have secured the kite, deflate the LE (not the struts) and roll the
kite up, securing it by wrapping your harness around it. Close
deflate valve afterwards so bladder does not fill with water.
The rolled up kite (with inflated struts) will offer flotation for
your to lie on and paddle back to shore.
Figure 1.
Figure 2.
Figure 3.
Figure 4.
Figure 5.
