I have seen three other riders having to be rescued in the last 8 months, but with inflatable kites, which don't sink like foil kites.
On the other hand, I haven't seen this happening more than 5 times in the last 6 years in my previous local spot, in Brazil.
This huge difference in the number of rescues caught my attention and I believe it happens for three reasons:
1. Kite riders go far from the coast looking for the reef break.
2. Nobody uses life vests.
3. It seemed that the rescuees didn't know how to use the kite as boat to do the self-rescue.
My pieces of advice are:
1. Don't go far without a life vest, appropriated wetsuit (it might get cold if you spend 2hs floating and waiting for rescue)
and if your swimming ability is not enough ot bring you back.
2. When learning ask your instructor to teach you rescue techiniques. If it is too late, review the Progress Begineers DVD and practice it at least once in lifetime.
3. If you are introducing someone to kiteboarding, teach them self-rescue first and/or warn them to ask for this instructions for their instructors.
4. If you know you are going to run any risks, ask another rider to keep an eye on you.
Cheers,
Franklin Dattein
