Five things to check before you launch

Every good session starts on the sand. Before you launch, take two minutes:

1. Ama and iako: lashings tight, no cracks.
2. Leash: on your ankle or the canoe, never loose.
3. Bailer and bungees: in their place.
4. Water and sun: a bottle within reach, reef-safe sunscreen.
5. Tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back.

Then check the wind and the swell on the Conditions page.