GAC hire equipment terms & conditions

1. Hire Commencement • The Hirer must complete a hire booking form and receive a mandatory safety briefing from a staff member prior to the commencement of the hire period

2. Safety Regulations • Life jackets or buoyancy aids must be worn at all times while on the water. • The Hirer confirms and agrees that they are physically fit and capable of participating in the chosen activity. Individuals with any pre-existing medical condition that could be aggravated by the activity, including but not limited to heart conditions, back problems, epilepsy, or recent injuries, must consult with a medical professional before hiring • The Hirer acknowledges that participation in water sports and outdoor activities involves inherent risks. While LKA takes reasonable steps to ensure safety, LKA, its employees, and representatives shall not be liable for personal injury, death, loss, or damage to the Hirer or their property except where caused by LKA’s gross negligence or wilful misconduct.

3. Navigational Restrictions • The Hirer shall familiarize themselves with shallow areas and remain within designated boundaries as instructed by LKA staff. • Hirers of power boats shall not proceed south beyond the second island (into the high speed zone) without specific permission

4. Environmental Protection • Lighting fires on the shores of Loch Ken is strictly prohibited. • No actions shall be taken by the hirer in contravention of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code or the Loch Ken Rules & Regulations

5. Equipment Responsibility • The Hirer is responsible for the full replacement cost of any equipment that is lost, stolen, or damaged during the hire period, fair wear and tear excepted.

6. Equipment Return • The Hirer shall check back in at reception immediately following their session to sign in and return all hired equipment.

7. Competency • This is a self-led, unsupervised activity. LKA staff will not accompany, monitor, or oversee your session once you depart. You are entirely responsible for your own safety and decision-making on the water. While LKA may, at its discretion, offer assistance in the event of an emergency, hirers acknowledge that this hire agreement does not include instruction or supervision. Hirers must be competent to operate the hired equipment independently in the expected conditions • Sailors should be at least capable of rigging the boat they choose to hire and should not sail in conditions beyond their ability

8. Booking and Cancellation Policy • Bookings are binding and non-refundable. In the event of cancellation by LKA due to equipment failure or adverse weather conditions, a full refund or a voucher for a future hire will be offered.

9. Termination of Hire • LKA reserves the right to terminate this Agreement and the hire without refund or compensation if the Hirer breaches these terms and conditions, behaves in a manner that endangers the safety of themselves or other water users, or fails to comply with instructions given by LKA staff. Examples of such behaviour include, but are not limited to, being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, exceeding designated boundaries, or operating equipment in a reckless manner.

10. Insurance • LKA maintains public liability insurance to cover our negligence. This insurance does not cover personal injury to the Hirer, damage to their property, or damage caused by the Hirer to third parties. The Hirer is responsible for their own insurance, and it is strongly recommended they obtain appropriate cover

11. Data Protection • LKA will process the Hirer's personal data in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) for the purposes of fulfilling this Agreement and ensuring safety. Personal data will be retained only for as long as necessary to comply with legal and safety obligations