STAND UP PADDLE | WORD OF CAUTION

WARNING

Paddle sports can be very dangerous and physically demanding. The user of this product should understand that participating 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.

 

• Get paddle sport instruction from a licensed or certified instructor.

• Obtain certified first aid and rescue training and carry first aid and rescue equipment.

• Double check the weather forecast just prior to going on the water, and be aware of appropriate river water levels, wind direction and speed, tidal changes, dangerous currents and forecast weather changes. Be particularly aware of offshore winds and currents, that push you away from safety. Never go on the water if the weather forecast is inappropriate.

• Scout unfamiliar waters and portage where appropriate.

• Do not paddle in flood conditions.

• Never paddle or go on the water alone. Always leave a detailed plan with someone you know who is not part of your group. Include: Where you have gone, what you are expected to do, when you are expected back, and what to do if they have no news from you after the designated return time.

• Never use this product in waves unless you have received the appropriate training, and have mastered the product on flatwater first. Take lessons regularly with your local school to ensure that your knowledge and ability is up to date.

• In surf conditions, do not paddle on crowded spots and respect your fellow surfers. Know the rules of surfing as they also apply to paddling in waves. 

• Dress appropriately for weather conditions; cold water and/or cold weather can result in hypothermia. Protect yourself from the sun.

• Always use a surf leash attaching your leg to the board. However, a leash is not a life-safety device and is intended for convenience only. It is not intended to compensate for deficient paddling and swimming ability, ocean knowledge, safety precautions, or general common sense. 

• Always wear a nationally-approved personal flotation device, unless you are using the board in waves. In waves, where the use of a personal flotation device can be dangerous, you should have the appropriate swimming and paddling ability not to need one. 

• Always wear a helmet where appropriate.

• Always hold onto your SUP paddle - The SUP paddle is a vital part of your manoeuvrability and security. If dropped in the water it should be recovered as quickly as possible. Never paddle in surf conditions if you cannot control your SUP paddle at all times - A floating paddle may be dangerous for other water users.

• Check all equipment prior to each use for signs of wear and tear, and potential failure. Do not use if the risk of failure is suspected. Pay particular attention to the state of your fin, to ensure that it is smooth and free of cutting edges which can cause serious injury to either you or somebody else. Buy extra “soft fins” if you are new to the sport and paddling, they will significantly reduce the chance of injury to either yourself or others.


• Consult your physician prior to beginning your paddle sport training.

• Do not exceed your paddling ability; be honest with yourself.

• Never go further from shore than you are prepared and able to swim back. Equipment failures can and do occur.

• In the event of an accident, this craft can provide vital flotation. Use it appropriately. However, the inherent flotation does not compensate for deficient swimming ability.

• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the use of this product. Read this manual and any additional information available on-line.

• You must not use alcohol or mind-altering drugs while or prior to using this product.

• If you have any uncertainty about your swimming or paddling ability, the state of your equipment, the weather and/or water conditions, DO NOT GO ON THE WATER. Seek further advice from a certified instructor, your local dealer and/or the manufacturer, and try again when you are ready.

• Respect nature, the environment, and all other water users.

• The user of this product acknowledges both an understanding and assumption of the risk involved in paddle sports. We assume no liability for any damage or injury to you or others caused by use, misuse, lack of common sense, or inability to use this product.