OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
8
Preparation Before Departure
Acquire necessary information and inform other passengers:
1. Get information on local laws, regulation and hazards related to water activities and boat operation.
2. Check weather forecast, local currents, tides and wind conditions.
3. Advise someone on land of the time you plan to be back.
4. Explain basic boat operation to all passengers.
5. Be sure that at least one of your passengers can operate the boat in case of emergency.
6. Determine the distance you can cover, and remember that bad weather conditional can alter this.
Check the Working Condition of the Boat and Equipment
1. Check inflation pressure
2. Check all safety valves
3. Check load is evenly distributed on deck of boat: front to back and side to side.
Check That Required Safety Equipment is on Board
(Check the laws and regulations of the country or locality in which you’re boating)
1. One personal flotation device (PFD) for each passenger.
2. The air pump, oars repair kit and tool kit.
3. The mandatory equipment.
4. The boat papers and your boating license (if applicable).
5. Lights are required if operating after dark.
Rules to Observe During Navigation
1. Be responsible and strictly follow the safety rules. Do not neglect the safety rules, this could be
hazardous to your life and lives of others.
2. Learn to keep control of your kayak.
3. Respect local regulations and practices.
4. Navigate on “sheltered water” only.
5. Keep fire away. Do not smoke on board.
6. Remember weather conditions can rapidly deteriorate. Always be sure that you can reach shelter quickly.
7. Do not drink alcohol or take drugs before or while operating your kayak. All passengers should
maintain sobriety on all voyages.
8. Make sure your passengers remain seated.
9. No bow riding. Bow riding is illegal in most areas and is extremely dangerous.
10. Be very careful when landing. Arms and legs might be hurt while hanging off the kayak.
11. Always avoid areas where divers/swimmers are in the water. Keep a sharp lookout especially
when operating near beaches and launch sites. The Alpha flag indicates proximity of divers. You
MUST stay away a good distance (minimum 50 meters).
