First Accident Reported on Kite Tube in Oregon

Manufactuters are now recalling some of the kite tubes.

Photo courtesy: sportsstuff.com

(OWYHEE LAKE) - A recent kite tube accident on Oregon's Owyhee Lake led to the state's first serious injury with the controversial inflatable devices designed to be towed by a boat.

In this case, a 33-year old female was life-flighted to a Boise Hospital with possible crushed vertebra. It happened July 8th.

The Consumer Products Safety Commission sent out an advisory urging water enthusiasts to use extreme care when using this new towable device, prompting the Marine Board to issue an advisory on July 10th.

Kite tubes are large towed, inflatable toys designed to become airborne at moderate speeds. They have been blamed for a number of serious injuries and several fatalities to riders in other states.

"We were hoping to be proactive in alerting boaters about the potential dangers before any injuries occur in Oregon," said Ashley Massey, Public Affairs Specialist for the Marine Board. "Any change in speed, wind direction, or handling by the rider can lead to a serious injury. Riders need to be very cautious."

The Wego Kite Tube appears to be the main product in question. Sportsstuff, Inc., the manufacturer of the Wego kite tube, issued a recall of this product on July 5th, in light of the various nationwide injuries and fatalities.

People who already own a Wego kite tube need to contact the company. Sportsstuff, Inc. will replace the kite tubes with other products up to the same value.

For more information about the recall notification, go to www.boatoregon.com.