This week's handy hint is useful when deck hatches have started to deteriorate and where cracks start to appear on the surface. The inside of the hatch cover can be smeared with silicon sealant and then lined with a polythene sheet such as a black bin bag. This will prevent water leaking into the hatch and will enable the paddler to continue with his or her journey.

A safety note - this handy hint should only be used as a last resort. Hatch covers should be inspected regularly and replaced as soon as any deterioration is found, as water in the hatches can cause instability, reduces buoyancy and may result in the kayak sinking.

Chris Jones

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