Main risks

• Falls into the water or loss of control due to poorly secured accessories that come loose or interfere with paddling and re-entry.
• Entrapment and entanglement with lines, elastic/shock cords, straps, leashes or poorly adjusted spraydecks.
• Blows and cuts from paddles, fittings, screws, karabiners and protruding mounts.
• Capsize or instability due to poor load distribution (dry bags, deck gear) or excess weight.
• Loss of watertightness due to defective hatch covers or seals.
• Failure of inflatable accessories due to overpressure, punctures or faulty valves.
• Injuries on land when using transport trolleys or straps (pinching, tip-overs, strap whiplash).
• Hull damage from drilling, adhesives or unsuitable clamps causing cracks or leaks.
• Electrical hazard with lights or pumps if connections get wet or damaged.

Safe use

• Check and test each accessory in a calm area before moving away from the shore; always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Before each outing, check screws and fittings, buckles, closures, karabiners, cordage, suction cups and valves; replace worn parts.
• Keep the cockpit and the deck where you place your feet and hands clear; avoid installing items that hinder a quick exit or re-entry.
• With spraydecks, ensure the grab loop remains visible and accessible; practise releasing it.
• With leashes and lines, adjust the length to avoid entanglement and use quick-release systems where appropriate; avoid using them in currents if you are not confident in their use.
• Distribute the load low and centred; respect the capacity of the kayak/canoe and the maximum load of each accessory.
• Wear a buoyancy aid and thermal clothing appropriate to the water and weather conditions.
• Inflatable accessories: do not overinflate; check for possible leaks and correct valve closure; keep them away from heat sources.
• Lights and pumps: protect batteries and connections from knocks and splashes; check they are working before setting off.
• During installation, wear gloves and eye protection; work on a stable surface and keep children and pets away.
• If you must drill or glue, follow the accessory manufacturer’s instructions and avoid structural or watertight areas of the kayak/canoe.
• For transport, use straps in good condition and firm anchor points; tension without over-tightening and check periodically during the journey.

Storage and maintenance

• Rinse with fresh water after each use in the sea or on sand, especially fittings, zips and hook-and-loop fasteners.
• Dry completely before storing; air out dry bags and spraydecks to prevent mould and odours.
• Store in a dry, ventilated, shaded place; avoid extreme heat and prolonged sun exposure.
• Regularly inspect straps, elastic/shock cords, seams, gaskets and hatch covers; replace cracked or frayed components.
• Lightly lubricate moving parts (buckles, zips) with products compatible with aquatic environments.
• Check the watertightness of bags and compartments with a simple test before long trips.
• Remove burrs or sharp edges on fittings; replace damaged parts that could snag or cut.
• Store batteries and torches dry and disconnected; protect the contacts and avoid extreme temperatures.
• Store trolleys and racks unloaded and with fixings slackened to avoid deforming wheels or straps.

Restrictions of use

• Do not use accessories as flotation or life-saving devices.
• Do not use accessories that are damaged, with broken buckles, loose screws, open seams or frayed straps.
• Do not install accessories that block re-entry, paddling or a quick exit from the cockpit.
• Do not exceed the maximum load indicated for the accessory, trolley or rack, nor the capacity of the kayak/canoe.
• Do not drill or glue items to the hull if the kayak/canoe manufacturer does not authorise it or if you do not know the location of reinforcements and watertight compartments.
• Do not leave long lines trailing in the water or open karabiners that could snag.
• Do not use fixed leashes on rivers with current or in surf without a release system and adequate practice.
• Do not transport the kayak on the vehicle with deteriorated straps or routed over edges that could cut them; do not drive with loose accessories.
• Children and inexperienced people should use simple accessories under close supervision; avoid systems that hinder a quick exit.