I have reviewed many kite safety guidlines on many different websites across the Internet. From these I have compiled a list of Guidlines I think make sense for Ohio Waters. This is a work in progress and all feedback is appreciated. The Right of way rules are very similar to what sailboats currently use.

Guidelines for Responsible Kiteboarding on Ohio Waters:

• Whenever possible, fly your kite over water as your chances of being hurt in a gust are decreased. Keep your Kite low and pointing towards the water if over land. Move to the water quickly and safely bodydrag 100 feet away from shore before attempting a water start.

• If you must walk your kite upwind, please 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, please land your kite in the water and carry it upwind.

• Whenever possible please land your kite in the water unless you have an experienced assistant who can "catch" your kite for a landing out of water.

• Whenever possible fly your kite downwind of any people, roads, buildings, or other obstructions.

• Please clearly announce when you are launching your kite by loudly saying, "LAUNCHING."

• The use of an assisted launch is highly recommended. If you see someone ready to launch please help them in order to maximize safety for all.

Right of way “Rules of The Water”:
(Note: You are on “starboard tack” when the wind first crosses the right side of your board (relative to the direction you are riding). If the wind hits the left side of your board first you are on “port tack.”

• When two kiteboarders converge in a way that may lead to a collision, the kiteboarder on port tack must give way to the kiteboarder on starboard tack. Starboard tack has right of way in this situation.

• When two kiteboarders converge, and they are on the same tack, the kiteboarder most upwind must give way to the kiteboarder most downwind. The leeward kiteboarder has right of way in this situation.

• When two kiteboarders converge in a way that may lead to the kites colliding, the upwind kiteboarder must fly their kites as high as possible, and the downwind kiteboarder must fly their kite as low as possible.

• A kiteboarder passing someone must give way to the person they are passing. The kiteboarder being passed has the right of way.

• A Kiteboarder returning to the beach must give way to a kiteboarder leaving the beach. Kiteboarders leaving the beach have the right of way.

• Always give right of way to anyone who enters the 200' safety zone downwind of you.

Required Equipment:
• A kite leash, which will depower a released kite must be worn to protect the safety of those around you.
• Windsurfing/kiteboarding harness is optional but recommended.

• A PFD (lifejacket) is required, and helmet is optional.

• A whistle to signal to approaching boats when you, or your lines, are down in the water.

• A knife (preferably a hook knife) to cut tangled lines.

General Safety Guidelines:
• Only kiteboard as far from the beach as you are able to swim. This distance may be shorter than if you were fully rested. Know your limits and Kite within them.

• Learn and practice self rescues until you are certain you can get back to shore safely.

• Safety means kiteboarding with at least one other person whenever possible. Always let someone know where you are going, and when you intend to return.

• Using brightly colored lines and kites when possible will helps others avoid entangling themselves in your equipment. Wrap up your lines when not in use.

• It is important to maintain your equipment in top working order. Check and double-check your equipment carefully before launching your kite. Once in the air an improperly rigged kite can be a hazard to you and those around you.

• Remember to stay well hydrated, and to wear sunscreen. Your welfare and happiness is your own responsibility.

• Always look downwind before every jump or turn.

• Refrain from jumping if there is anyone within the space 200' downwind of you.

• RESPECT the Lifeguards, Police, and ODNR  Park Officers or you may find your kiting day come to a sudden end.

Have fun, be safe, and use common sense!