This is a summary of the safety guidelines provided by MPA for all kayakers. It is a great information kakis new to kayak fishing or those who never knew MPA had guidelines on kayaks.
For the actual copy you can refer to www.mpa.gov.sg/sites/pdf/safety_guidelines_canoes_kayak.pdf
A) PERSONAL SAFETY
1. Using a canoe or kayak requires a certain level of expertise, let alone fishing on one. MPA recommends that beginners should not do this sport alone, but to follow an experienced person until the person gained competency.
2. Extend your range / distance from the shore at comfortable stages, stay close to shore. Know your limitations and allow for fatigue during paddling. (In case you've run out of energy to paddle back to shore due to strong currents)
3. If you are not a competent swimmer, let the person accompanying you know so that he/she can assist you in an event of emergency
4. Do not drink & kayak at the same time
5. Under Regulation 52 of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (Pleasure Craft) Regulations, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) requires an individual to wear a proper life jacket/vest throughout the sport. If you fail to do so, you will require a license to kayak.
B) SAFE PRACTICES FOR CANOEING AND KAYAKING
1. Inform someone ashore of your intended location and duration of the trip. If you are not back at the intended time or uncontactable, the person can call for help.
2. Do not enter any of the prohibited areas for canoes and kayaks in Singapore (Refer to the previous post)
3. Beware of tides and currents. In the event of bad weather, return to shore immediately.
4. Canoeing and kayaking shall be carried out during the day.
5. Take note of the movements of other vessels at sea. These vessels have limited manoeuvring room therefore kayakers should cross the fairway only when it is safe to do so.
C) CHECK LIST FOR CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF SEA WORTHINESS
Canoe Etiquette
1. Never sit or lean on a canoe/kayak except in the designated seat area once the canoe/kayak is in the water.
2. Sitting in the seat area on land can cause the canoe/kayak to crack.
3. Never step over the body of the canoe/kayak. If you need to move to the other side, walk around the canoe/kayak.
4. Canoe/kayak should not be dropped or dragged, but set down lightly.
5. Do not place any heavy object in the canoe/kayak as it may cause dents.
Storage
1. Do not leave the canoe/kayak in the water.
2. When not in use, remove the canoe/kayak from the water and store it by turning the canoe/kayak over off the ground or hanging it from the ceiling. Do not turn the boat over and leave it on the ground as it may wear the tips over time.
3. Store the canoe/kayak in the shelter as long weather exposure will wear out the canoe/kayak.
4. Tie up the canoe/kayak during storage (outdoors) as they can be easily blown around by winds.
5. Cover the canoe/kayak with a tarp. Do not put a tarp directly on a craft if you are storing it outdoor. Due to the possibility of moisture being trapped between the tarp and hull, it is best to drap the tarp like a tent using supports, to prevent discoloration or other damage to the craft.
Maintenance
1. Paint or varnish your canoe/kayak to remove scratches or tarnished areas about once a year. You do not have to repaint or revarnish the whole canoe since this will only add weight and lead to premature cracking. Always remove the old finish before adding any new paint or varnish.
2. A good UV protectant will help slow the fading process. It also helps to maintain a slick finish, which helps to prevent scratches.
3. Treatment for protection on the inside of the hull is not recommended as it may cause the inside of the hull to be slippery.
4. Always inspect the canoe/kayak thoroughly before use. Check for visible damages after any incident.
D) EMERGENCY
1. In case of emergency, please contact any of the following agencies. It is good to save these numbers in your handphone:
Police Coast Guard at 6377 5539 or 6377 5540.
Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore at 6325 2488 or 6325 2489.
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