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4. GUIDELINES FOR USAGE
Paddle sports can be very dangerous and physically demanding. The user of this product should understand that participation in paddle
sports may involve serious injury or death. Observe the following safety standards whenever using this product. The user of this product
acknowledges both an understanding and an assumption of the risk involved in paddle sports.
After you have inflated your kayak and before you put it in the water, inspect your equipment for obvious signs of wear and failure.
Review local rules and regulations and read again the safety warning in section 1.
Many areas have local laws and regulations about the use and equipment of small boats. Usually a phone call to the local authorities
will provide you with the needed information. Some areas may require that you register and display a registration number on the front of
your boat. Once you have been issued a number, it is best to affix it to the boat by printing it on the material with a permanent ink
marker. If you are required to display a sticker or vinyl letters, an inflatable boat ID kit can be purchased at most marine stores.
Your StraitEdge
TM
kayak is designed to be paddled with a double bladed kayak paddle. Paddle with short and even strokes. Keep the
blade close to the kayak and the paddle almost vertical. Pull with your lower hand and push with your upper hand. To reduce the
amount of swaying at the front of the kayak, ease off the force of your stroke. Paddling with a backward stroke can sometimes offer
quick maneuverability.
ALWAYS
practice safety and take the time to learn about the area where you are paddling. Get official information about the local tides,
currents, and wind conditions before paddling there. Be careful that you do not over estimate your strength, your endurance, or your
skill. Be careful never to under estimate weather conditions. Be aware of the dangers before you begin. Be aware of your skill level. Be
sure you understand and accept the risk of these dangers. There are many paddling clubs all over the world. These can be a great
source of information on places to paddle, people to paddle with, and most importantly, continued safety practices.
5. PROPER CARE AND STORAGE
Your inflatable boat is made of very durable materials. However, like anything else, proper use and care will increase the life of your
boat. Before storing your boat, make sure it is both CLEAN and DRY. You may clean your boat with a mild soap and water.
NEVER
use
strong solvents to clean your boat as they may destroy the material.
Be sure to rinse your boat with fresh water after every use in salt water and allow it to dry thoroughly before storing. Use a dry towel to
wipe up all moisture. It should be deflated and kept out of direct sunlight when stored. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures. If your
boat is exposed to freezing temperatures while storing, allow it to warm up before unfolding.
Do not store your boat for an extended period of time while wet. Follow these steps to remove excess water:
1. Unzip the zippers that run down the sides of the boat
2. Wipe away water with towel or sponge
3. Wipe off the floor, top, bottom and in between folds
4. If there is sand or gravel in the boat, you can hose out the cover and then wipe it down with a towel.
6. REPAIRS
All boats come with a repair kit that includes glue and several patches. This should remain with the boat in the event that you may need
it. If service is required for your kayak, please contact your dealer.
6.1 Repairing Small Punctures and Cuts
1. Cut a rounded patch at least ½ to 1 cm larger than the hole or cut.
2. Clean the area where the patch will be placed with water and/or mild soap.
3. Make sure all surfaces are dry.
4. In a well ventilated area, spread a thin layer of glue on both the patch and the damaged area. Let it sit for three to five minutes
or until tacky.
5. Apply the patch over the centre of the hole or cut and apply pressure for 1 minute.
6. Do not inflate the boat for at least twelve hours.
6.2 Repairing Pinholes
1. Inflate the PVC tube. Locate the pinhole by sponging soapy water over the tube until you see air bubbles. Mark the location of
the pinhole.
2. Deflate the tube and dry the affected area. Apply a drop of glue to the pinhole.
3. Allow glue to dry completely.
4. Do not inflate the kayak for at least twelve hours.
7. TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM
SOLUTION
How do I avoid over-inflating
The boat should be inflated so that the cover is filled out. There shouldn’t be any wrinkles. The
pump will also let you know when to stop. It will begin to give resistance letting you know the kayak
is inflated. For the floor chambers, you should inflate until it is firm to the touch.
The boat is sagging or under
Be sure that the right pump is being used. You need a foot pump or a double action hand pump. A
under
12-electric does not supply enough pressure to fully inflate the boat. The 12-V can be used to
partially inflate the boat but one of the other pumps is needed to top it off.
