Safety Notes

All props can be dangerous if used in dangerous ways. I am not going to deliver a lecture on common sense here. However, there are a few things I've learned from experience that may help you avoid the pain of discovery that I've been through. Once things become more organized around here, appropriate portions of these notes and other materials will be included in shipments. For now, please take heed.

Leashes in general - The greatest danger is what I will refer to as "whappage." This is when you hit yourself or someone else with a swinging object and it makes a loud "whap!" sound. It also hurts. To avoid excessive whappage, try the following:

Be sure that your practice area is clear before you begin swinging!
Use the Trainers to learn new tricks. That's what they're for, anyway.
Practice new tricks as slowly as you can, gradually building speed. Many tricks look as good or better at low speed than at high speed.
When a tangle occurs, don't let go of your finger loops unless you really have to! In most cases, the lines are only twisted. If you let go of the loops, you may allow them to knot, which is much harder to untangle. In addition, don't pull too hard to clear a tangle. You may create a knot where one didn't exist before. In all cases, untangle slowly & carefully. If the cable becomes kinked, it will not unkink.
Wear loose clothing that covers your legs and arms. A hat is a good idea, too. So is eye protection, especially when you're working on building up to high speeds.
Remember to stretch BEFORE you begin. These moves will work your arms and shoulders extensively, and Flaming Poodles are heavier than the other ends, so extra stretching is required.
Whappage happens. Don't get discouraged.

Flaming Poodles - The Standard Fire Safety Lecture (SFSL) is coming soon. Until then, here are some handy pointers:

Fire whappage hurts a lot more than regular whappage. Review all the above tips.
It's fire. USE EXTREME CAUTION! It is very easy to burn yourslf. Be extra careful of hair in various places, loose clothing, etc.
Practice all your fire moves with unlit Poodles before you light up. Trust me on this one--being too eager costs hair and skin.
Remember that Poodles are considerably heavier than other ends. They will go slower. If you go fast, your chances of painful whappage increase dramatically. Besides, fire moves look good at lower speeds.
When using Poodles, spend the extra stretching time. You'll thank me later.