Stearns Recreational B801 Green Red Underway, Before You Start, Transporting, Carrying and Towing

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.

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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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