CLUB GUIDELINES

Guidelines of Kayak Share Club Inc 

For using a kayak 

1. A kayak can ONLY be used if a booking is made prior to use.
2. Kayak codes are for members only and are NOT to be shared with non-members at any time.
3. It is the responsibility of the paddler to check the seaworthiness of the kayak before each use. Check if the bung/plug is in (for a sit-on-top), hatch covers tightly closed, rudder in working order? etc.
4. Please report any maintenance, repairs or lock issues promptly. 
5. If any major damage or the loss of a kayak occurs, the member may be held responsible.
6. Each kayak is secured to the rack differently. When removing a kayak, please note how it is secured and lock it up again in the same way. (The KSC sticker and rudders face towards the beach). 
7. Report promptly any lapses in security or the locking up of kayaks to the committee as the kayaks are not insured.
8. Combination locks need to be kept sand-free by always re-attaching the lock to the rack immediately after the kayak is unlocked. 
9. A spray bottle of soapy water is provided to clean locks and rudder pedals of sand and salt as required.
10. Always slide a kayak on its hull when taking out or returning it to the racks to protect the attachments such as holding straps, collapsible seats, hatch covers, paddle leashes, and skeg.
11. Please carry the kayak by the toggles or handles, NOT the decklines or shockcord (elastics).
12. Secure rudders with their holding strap before returning the kayak to the rack.
13. A bucket is provided for kayak washdowns or beach clean-up. 

For finding paddling friends and booking a kayak

1. Use Shlott, our online booking system, at shlott.com/login .
2. A kayak can be booked up to 3 days ahead.
3. If you change your mind, or the weather changes, or you swap kayaks, please cancel or edit your booking.
4. Use the WhatsApp groups Kayak SOCIAL, KSC NEW MEMBERS and KSC NOTICES to hear of club news, share photos or comments, and see announcements.
5. It is safer and often more fun to paddle in numbers. We encourage members to arrange paddles with others by privately messaging to others on WhatsApp OR by putting a general message up such as : "Anyone for a paddle on Saturday at 9am?" OR just book the same time as someone and play it by ear or splash!

For general safety 

1. Before going paddling, check a weather forecast for weather and tide conditions. eg.MetEye - http://www.bom.gov.au/australia/meteye/
2. Wear an approved lifejacket (PFD) at all times. Members must provide their own PFD, paddle and any other safety equipment they desire.
3. Cross ferry lanes and shipping channels at right angles and by the shortest distance, and only when it is safe.
4. Give way to ALL ferries, boats under sail and motorboats.
5. Stay together as a group.
6. Wear marine booties or light shoes at all times for safety on beaches and slippery or rocky shorelines. 
7. Wear suitable high vis clothing (hat, quick dying clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen) and bring a water bottle.
8. Wear a headlamp in early morning, dusk or on dull days. An all-round white light must be displayed between sunset and sunrise.

For urgent assistance when out kayaking - phone:

• Marine Rescue:

                    South Head  9337 5033

                    Middle Head  9969 3270

• Emergency on 000
• The Emergency+ app (download to your phone)