Kite safety for kite surfers

What does BROKFLY mean in the kitesurfing world? And how do you apply it? Safety first!

BROKFLY buddycheck

The Royal Dutch Rescue Organisation or KNRM has developed a system in consultation with a number of kite surfers to increase safety for this extreme sport on the water. Initially, we looked at what risks there are and how to reduce these risks by going through a number of things in advance.

The checks are called BROKFLY because these are the first letters of the steps you need to take before entering the water. It is a buddy check, which means that you do the safety check with a buddy. In addition to the kite surfing rules, a safety check before you go on the water is important!

Okay, here we go, what does BROKFLY stand for?

B stands for Buddy

Kitesurfing is an individual sport, but it is unwise to go on the water alone. So you always have a buddy with you. Together you can keep an eye on each other and if something should happen, the other person can help you or get help.

R stands for Release

Does the release or the quick release work well? The release is a safety system that releases the pressure from your kite. Always check whether it works properly before you go on the water. If there is sand in between, it may happen that your release does not burst in an emergency, with all its consequences.

O stands for Obstacles

Are there any obstacles in the water or on the side? Many accidents are caused by obstacles on the kitesurf spot. Are you at a new kitesurfing location? Then ask a local if there are any obstacles in the spot.

K stands for Knife

Do you have a knife with you? In most harnesses there is a place to put a small harness blade. This is useful if you need to cut the lines in an emergency. If you lie in the water and get caught in the lines of the kite, a so-called kiteknife is a lifesaver to stay in English terms.

F stands for Forecast

You need to know the forecast or weather forecast before going out on the water. Of course it remains a weather forecast, but if there are thunderstorms or ridiculously strong wind gusts forecast, stay at home. 35 Knots stands for strong wind, but there are limits of course. There are enough apps to view the forecast.

L stands for Leash

Leash is a safety system with which you can completely rid yourself of the kite. Always check whether it works well and whether you can easily access it. If you are in a situation where you have to use the leash, it is often a very stressful moment. It is important that you can easily access the leash.