Proper loading of persons and equipment can be an important safety issue.

Improper loading can impede the operation of the vessel and could increase the risk of causing injuries or loss of life to persons on board.

• Do not overload the craft in excess of the "recommended gross load capacity" or the "equivalent number of adult persons" if applicable. Overloading will put the vessel low in the water and increase the possibility of swamping.
• Position the persons on board and the gear so as to evenly distribute the weight.
• Keep the load as low as possible.   The higher the load, the more likely your vessel is to roll and possibly swamp.
• Lash the gear or stow the gear in lockers to prevent uncontrolled movement.