Advanced Elements AE1014 - Manual (Page 12)

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4. GUIDELINES FOR USAGE
Paddlesports can be very dangerous and physically demanding. The user of this product should
understand that participation in paddlesports 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 paddlesports.
After you have inflated your kayak and before you put it in the water, inspect your equipment
for obvious signs of wear or failure. Review local rules and regulations and read again the
“CAUTION” statement.
Most 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 kayak.
Once you have been issued a number, it is best to affix it to the kayak 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 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 on 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 and currents 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.
4.1 To Use As Self-Bailing
The StraitEdge™ can be used as both a self-bailing and non self-bailing kayak. Most self-bailing
inflatable kayaks are designed for paddling white water only. They typically have quite a bit of
rocker to allow quick turning and other maneuvers. By opening the drain ports you will allow
water or waves that spills into the kayak to drain out through the bottom. In calm conditions or
on cold days you may wish to close the drain ports to prevent water from entering the kayak at
all. The StraitEdge™ incorporates the aluminum bow and stern frame to improve tracking in
open water conditions.