Stearns Recreational Back Country B801 Green Red - Manual (Page 14)

6. UNDERWAY
In all your uses of STEARNS ® Inflatable canoe, make SAFETY a high
priority. Each person should wear an approved personal flotation
device. Learn about your boating area. Get official information about
the local conditions, tides and currents before canoeing there. Be
careful that you do not overestimate your strength, endurance or skill.
Be careful never to underestimate the forces of nature.
6.1 Before You Start
Be smart when canoeing and using your equipment.
•
Properly inflate your canoe. Do not under or over-inflate.
Outside temperatures of air and water will drastically change
the volume inside chambers. Chambers may need to be
adjusted (inflated or deflated) for optimum performance and
safety.
•
Know the conditions of the environment.
•
Tell someone of your travel plans. Check local weather reports
before casting off; do not leave the dock area when strong
winds and electrical storms are in the area or predicted to be in
the area.
•
Secure or store loose items before getting underway.
6.2 Transporting, Carrying and Towing
Your canoe should always be transported dry and in its transporting
(carrying) bag. Dry and clean as much as possible before placing
canoe in carrying bag. Once you have reached your destination, or
before long periods of non-use, inflate the canoe and allow it to air dry
before storing.
Use care when transporting or storing to avoid sharp points or edges;
they will damage your canoe. Use the carrying handles to lift your
canoe. Never pull or lift it by the sides or attach any other device to lift
or carry it.
Do not exceed the maximum recommended load. The total
weight of all persons, gear and fluid capacities must
never exceed the maximum load.
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