Kite Flying

Kite flying needs certain conditions. First of all, to launch a kite you need a large open space like a field or a beach, and a steady wind, blowing from one direction, without any sudden gusts or changes in wind direction. The small kites will be much easier to fly in a gentle wind because in strong winds the kite may be destroyed. However, big kites will only take off in a reasonably strong wind. The wind should be behind you. Unwind several meters of string holding the kite at arms length and pull on the string gently. If you have a larger kite, make sure you get a friend to help. He should stand a little way off with the kite held out in front of him and he should let go of the kite when you give him a sign. A kite should never be thrown into the air but simply released when the wind is strong enough to lift it. Be very careful how you handle your kite and try to avoid any sudden movement once it is in the air. The intensity or direction of the wind changes may cause your kite to loose height. In such a case, unwind a little of the string to make it more manoeuvrable. When the kite is on the ground, don’t pull it along because you might tear it.

If you want to bring the kite down in a hurry, your string must be taut or put your arm over the string and run towards the kite. Make sure you have a ‘kite first aid kit’, containing; a pair of scissors, some glue, adhesive tape, and two or three strips of crêpe paper with you for kite emergency repairs. A word of warning: never fly a kite near a railway line, electricity poles, or a busy road. If the kite comes down suddenly near a car, it may cause an accident. Never fly a kite in stormy weather because it could act as a lightening conductor.

Check that you understand what these words mean in this document
To launch a kite: to send a kite into the sky.
Gust: a sudden strong rush of air.
Intensity: the strength of something.
Taut: something that is pulled tight.
Conductor: a path for electricity.