SAFETY GUIDELINES These guidelines are intended for educational purposes only. They are not intended as a basis for evidence of legal responsibility or negligence in any legal action. Suggested guidelines are for commercial tours, rentals and lessons and it is recognized that each area and each situation calls for different responses and implies no limitations on solutions the operator may choose.

SUGGESTED GUIDE LINES FOR RENTAL OPERATIONS

This document is intended as a guide for outfitters renting sea kayaks to the general public. It is recognized that each rental operation is different and that the requirements for renting a sit-on ocean kayak for day trips in tropical waters will be different from renting expedition boats in Alaska. Accordingly, they are presented not as hard and fast rules but as suggestions for the safe management of a kayak rental business.

It is further anticipated that kayaks will usually be rented in much the same manner as skis or canoes (without proof of prior experience or skill) rather than in the manner of renting an automobile or airplane where proof of competence (a license) is required. It is, however, suggested that screening of customers take place and that the following procedures be followed:

1. Be reasonably sure that the renters understand the nature of their intended trip. Some questions to help clarify the position for first time paddlers are:

• Where are they going? Do they show an understanding of the proposed areas (i.e., outside exposed shores vs. the protected inside waterways).
• - Do they have sufficient experience for the type of trip planned?
• - Are they paddling with more experienced companions?
• - Have they taken lessons?
• - Do they have canoe or white water kayaking or sailing experience?
• - Have they filed a detailed paddle plan with a responsible party?

2. Require the customer provide: - a clear signed acceptance of responsibility for everything, including the completeness and soundness of gear being rented. (Note: This wiIl not exempt the outfitter from charges of negligence should equipment be found to be faulty, but it helps establish safe attitudes for the renter.)

3. The Outfitter should provide: - a sound kayak and equipmen t that meets all coast guard requirements, with suitable stability and one appropriate for the type of trip to be undertaken. Actual C.G. requirements should be checked in each area, as different parts of the Continent have different requirements.

- Ou tfitting of kayak: -

• - grab loops on each end
• - secure buoyancy fore and aft.
• - a paddle

Discretion must be used to decide what equipment to provide. To be offered: -

-- an appropriate, easily escapable spray skirt < LI>- a self rescue device
• - paddle float
• - sea sock
• - spare paddle
• - pump and/or bailing device
• - appropriate signaling devices for the trip (flares, etc.) -

First time renters may be encouraged to: -

-
• take a co urse in sea kayaking
• - watch an instructional and self rescue video
• - read the TAPS "Before You Go" brochure (or equivalent) provided
• - wear a wetsuit or other appropriate protective garment
• - practice release of spray skirts
• - All ren ters will be encouraged to exercise sound judgment, seamanship and
• self responsibility.

4. Rentals should be refused to people who are: -

- underage and unaccompanied
• - intoxicated or otherwise impaired
• - unruly or overtly irresponsible
• - show signs of obviously bad judgment -

(Some people simply "feel unsafe." Such people should be counseled to take a kayaking course or paddle with competent friends.)