This post describes Flat Land Kayak’s waiver & release protocols. Included are examples of waivers for review.
Activity Waiver
Kayaking is an inherently risky activity. While Flat Land considers the safety of its participants first and foremost and chooses venues with intent to minimize risk as much as reasonably possible, all risk can not be eliminated entirely.
Before any class goes into or onto the water, the instructor will conduct a safety brief that includes a discussion on the inherent risks, and will require from each participant a signed waiver acknowledging they understand and assume responsibility for that risk. Examples of the forms Flat Land uses are below. Participants are asked to review the appropriate waiver prior to class.
If desired, participants may print and sign the appropriate form prior to class. They may then bring it with them to class or, preferably scan the signed form and send to Flat Land as a .pdf (or .jpeg) document. Conversely they may wait for the completion of the brief before signing. The brief will occur in all cases, but no one may go on or into the water without a signed waiver in Flat Land’s possession.
Adult Waiver form. Use this form for oneself if aged 18 year or older:
Child Waiver Form. A parent/legal guardian must sign a completed minor waiver form for any person not yet 18 years of age:
Communicable Disease Policy and Waiver
Informed sources, such as the United States Center for Disease Control (CDC), widely acknowledge outdoor activities, such as kayaking, carry a lower risk of transmission of airborne illness than indoor activities. Nonetheless, we ask that all participants refrain from coming to class if they have signs of illness or have tested positive for Covid-19 consistent with current CDC guidance for when to isolate and when to return from isolation.
Flat Land does not ask for anyone’s vaccination status, nor require anyone to wear a mask. Participants must understand there will be situations in which we will be in close proximity (i.e. within six feet) while not wearing masks.
Participants will be required to sign a waiver acknowledging their understanding of the risks of communicable disease transmission, and their assumption of that risk. A responsible adult will be required to sign a communicable disease waiver for minors under the age of 18 years.
The form below is used for both minors and adults. Please review before class. Sign and bring or send (as .pdf or .jpeg) before class if desired.
Publicity Policy and Implied Release
Occasionally Flat Land Kayak takes photographs or video of classes in progress. Participants will be notified before the end of class of any video/photos taken. Unless participant specifically requests otherwise it is presumed participant has granted Flat Land Kayak permission to use their likeness for advertising purposes on its website or social media. Flat Land will not otherwise sell or distribute those likenesses.
Flat Land Kayak 