Stay Safe this Kite Season: Fly Your Kite Only Where Permitted

It's that time of year again in Barbados—kite flying season! A time for friends to gather, connect with nature, and yes, sometimes, power lines. While most kite-flying experiences are safe and enjoyable, all it takes is one unexpected gust of wind to turn your kite-flying adventure into a tangled mess.

If you ever find yourself in the unfortunate situation of your kite becoming entangled in power lines or stuck in a tree near them, the first and most crucial step is to let go of the handle or baller immediately. Then, report the location of the stuck kite to Barbados Light & Power without delay. Attempting to dislodge the kite yourself can pose serious risks of injury. The kite string and even the tail can conduct electricity, especially if they contain metal elements like decorative foils or filaments.

Furthermore, it's important to be cautious around trees that come into contact with power lines. In certain conditions, these trees can become energized, creating a potential hazard. Resist the temptation to use long sticks or other implements to reach fruit or objects caught in these trees, as this could lead to contact with live wires. Stay safe and aware when navigating areas with power lines nearby. Let's ensure our kite flying adventures remain joyful and injury-free.

Remember when you’re flying kites to be safe and choose wide open spaces away from the airport, power lines and busy roads. Districts which fall within five kilometres of the perimeter of the Grantley Adams International Airport are considered no-kite-flying zones. This zone stretches from Oistins in Christ Church to Boarded Hall in St. George, Brereton and Six Roads in St. Philip, back to South Point and Oistins.          

Kites must not be flown in the following areas in Christ Church: Silver Hill, Gall Hill, Kingsland, Wotton, Maxwell, Cane Vale, Newton, Scarborough, Pegwell, Gibbons, Thornbury Hill, Silver Sands, Ealing Park, Wilcox, Lowlands, Coverley, Charnocks, Pilgrim Road, Fairy Valley, Durants, Callenders, Chancery Lane, Parish Land, and Leadvale.

The other specific areas where kite flying is prohibited are Gemswick, Mangrove, Heddings, Foul Bay, Ocean City, Diamond Valley, and Rock Hall in St. Philip.  

(Source: Barbados GIS https://gisbarbados.gov.bb/blog/no-kite-flying-in-low-flying-aircraft-districts-2/ )

Don’t fly your kite during bad weather and don’t include metal or wires in your set-up. Also, please follow the law and ensure that your beautiful ‘singing angels’ and bull kites are not flown between the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.