Sand anchors will secure a heavy load when properly used.

• Dig a hole in the sand. Make the downwind edge of the hole as steep as possible. "Square" holes provide better resistance.
  
• Lay the anchor into the hole, with the straps on the bottom side. This way the fabric will bear the load instead of the straps and stitching.
  
• Place the sand back in the hole, on top of the anchor. For heavier kites, use plenty of sand. You can pile sand in front of the anchor as well. Remember that damp sand is heavier than dry sand. If necessary, there is probably water nearby.
  
• Gather the straps together and connect them with a caribiner. Make sure the straps are balanced so the load is distributed across all four. Connect your kite line to the caribiner. For larger kites, a stronger caribiner may be necessary.
  
• Test the anchor by pulling on the straps. It should be held in place by the combination of sand (weight) and the shape of the hole (resistance). For larger kites or stronger winds, it may be necessary to use more than one anchor.

Remember, no anchor is completely safe or immovable. Check it frequently � especially if the wind shifts or changes strength. However, if a sand anchor does pull loose, it will probably drag rather than break, which is safer than a free-falling kite or flying hard anchor stake.

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