The Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) has indicated that it has lost approximately $216 million in damage and repairs due to poor kite-flying practices this year.

The light and power company further stated that the practice has also been the cause of about 40 power outages across the island.

Last month, The Gleaner reported that there had been a number of power outages in Portmore and the Corporate Area that were related to kite tails getting tangled in power lines.

The JPS said Monday that earlier this month, approximately 16,000 customers in the Portmore and Central Village communities of St Catherine experienced three power outages caused by kite tails becoming tangled with power lines.

The company is, therefore, advising residents to fly their kites in open spaces and away from power lines.