Lady Ridgeway Hospital warns of rising kite-flying accidents

The Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children (LRH) has issued a safety warning to parents following a rise in accidents related to kite flying during the current dry weather and school holidays.

Acting LRH Director Specialist Dr. Pradeep Ratnasekera identified several primary risks, including collisions and falls during group activities, as well as the danger of children attempting to launch or retrieve kites from elevated locations.

A critical concern is the risk of electrocution. If a kite or conductive string comes into contact with high-voltage power lines, electricity can travel through the string, causing severe burns or fatal electric shocks. Medical professionals have reported cases where electrical burns caused extensive damage to tissues, blood vessels, and nerves in the arms, hands, and chest, sometimes necessitating surgery to remove damaged tissue or limbs.

Authorities are urging parents and guardians to supervise children closely and ensure that kite flying does not take place near high-voltage power lines to prevent avoidable injuries and fatalities.