Any ropes dangling from watercraft create an entrapment hazard in the event of a capsize. To keep bow and stern ropes under control, shock cord stash-points are often fitted on canoe deckplates. In theory, they provide secure stashing while still allowing instant access to the rope when needed.

A bungee through closely spaced holes in the deckplate will grip a coiled rope properly (left). When holes are far apart (right), the rope is not held effectively.

Unfortunately, the stash points are often not as effective as they could be. The shock cord is frequently installed through holes that are too far apart. The result is that stashing the coiled rope beneath the shock cord creates negligible stretching and little downward holding or"bunching" force on the rope. Consequently the coils are all too easily dislodged by waves and water.

• Drill new holes in the deckplate, same size as originals, but much closer, about 2-3 ins (6-8cm) apart depending on rope thickness.
• Re-install the shock cord to form a loose loop of a size that will need to be stretched enough to insert your coiled rope and will then grip well. You'll find that the rope stays in place much better, yet is still accessible when needed.

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