Uttarayan is a widely celebrated festival in India, particularly in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, West Bengal, and Karnataka, where flying kites is one of the main activities. However, while kite flying is an exciting and joyous occasion, it also comes with risks. To ensure the safety of everyone and avoid mishaps, it is important to take the following precautions during the festival.
Choose a safe location: The first and most crucial step is selecting a safe location for flying your kite. Avoid crowded areas and busy streets. Opt for open spaces such as rooftops, parks, or playgrounds, ensuring they are free from obstacles. Always check for overhead electric wires, as these pose significant dangers. If you are flying a kite on a terrace, ensure it has secure boundaries to prevent the risk of falling.
Check the kite and string quality: Before you begin, inspect the kite and the string thoroughly. Choose lightweight, durable kites that are easy to control. The string should be strong enough to withstand high winds, but it is essential to avoid sharp, metallic, or glass-coated strings, as these can cause serious injuries. If using traditional ‘manja’ (glass-coated thread), ensure it is used cautiously and kept away from others who may be harmed. Furthermore, avoid using Chinese manja, which can pose a significant threat to safety.
Wear proper protection: Kite flying can sometimes lead to accidents, especially when handling the string. Wearing gloves is essential to protect your hands from cuts while managing the kite. Additionally, wearing protective eyewear can shield your eyes from potential injuries caused by snapped or broken strings. Sharp strings are a common cause of finger injuries, but with proper care, these accidents can be avoided.
Avoid flying near power lines: Electrocution is one of the most dangerous risks associated with kite flying. Always ensure that your kite is flown well away from power lines, poles, or transformers. Never fly kites in areas where there is high voltage equipment, and be cautious if your kite becomes tangled in wires.
Supervise children: While Uttarayan is a festival enjoyed by people of all ages, children are especially vulnerable. Always supervise children when they are flying kites. Ensure that they do not use sharp strings or fly kites in dangerous locations. Keep them away from busy roads or areas where people may be flying kites recklessly.
Proper disposal of kite materials: A common environmental concern during Uttarayan is the improper disposal of broken kites, strings, and other materials. After the festival, make sure to dispose of any remnants in an environmentally responsible way. Avoid littering streets or fields with plastic or nylon strings, as these can harm wildlife. Encourage others to clean up the area and leave the environment as clean as possible.
Stay away from birds and wildlife: Flying kites in open fields can sometimes pose a threat to wildlife. The sharp strings of kites, especially glass-coated ones, can injure birds and other animals. Be mindful of wildlife and avoid flying kites in areas that are home to many birds, such as near bird sanctuaries or parks.
Fly kites in safe wind conditions: Always check the weather before flying your kite. Avoid flying during stormy, windy, or rainy conditions, as these can be dangerous. Sudden gusts of wind can cause kites to jerk unpredictably and fall. Choose moderate wind conditions for a safer and more enjoyable experience.
Be cautious around other kite flyers: Kite flying can turn into a competitive activity during Uttarayan, but it is essential to be respectful and considerate of others. Maintain a safe distance from other kite flyers to prevent accidents. Avoid getting too close to others’ kites or getting overly enthusiastic about cutting them. Stay calm and do not engage in unnecessary disputes; instead, help others celebrate the festival joyfully.
Stay hydrated and take breaks: Uttarayan can be physically demanding, especially when managing a kite for long periods. Ensure you stay hydrated throughout the day and take regular breaks. The sun can be intense, so applying sunscreen and wearing a hat will help protect you from sunburn.
Drive safely, even if you are not flying kites: Even if you are not flying kites, be cautious when driving or riding a two-wheeler. Kite strings, especially those of cut kites, can pose a great danger. There have been tragic stories of people suffering severe injuries, even fatalities, from kite strings. In Gujarat, bikers often use special protective gear during Uttarayan. Most importantly, never allow a child to sit in front of you on a bike during Makar Sankranti.
