Kitesurf Water Safety

It is very rear that we have problems in the water while kitesurfing, since we have the kite that will keep us floating. But in case we have ejected it we might get into this situation.

Currents are normally not that well known because they are “hidden”. They can be very dangerous in case your kite is not working (broken or ejected) or if the wind dies while you are far from the shore.

In Case this happens just remember this: “Flip, Float, Follow” and KEEP CALM!:

-Flip on your back.

-Float to save energy.

-Follow the current until it is very mild and you can control it.

 

Do not try to swimm against the current even if you feel you are very close to the shore (50-100m), you will get tyred. Wait until the current is gone and then try to swim back from other point.

It is recommended to use a life-vest, although most kiters do not use it. Specially when you are a beginner or an expert practicing dangerous tricks it is recommended an impact life-vest, which will keep you floating and at the same time will protect you from crashes.

Bahia Salinas is not a spot with strong currents, but some others in Costa RIca are. Most currents are cause because of wave swells and tides. In Costa Kite School we explain all this info to our students to make sure that when they practice the sport in other spot and with no supervision they can do it on a safe way.

Kitesurf water safety is not a joke is something that everyone practicing water sport should know.