Why is it important to tie down gear when using a canoe or kayak?

Tying down gear when using a canoe or kayak is vital primarily to prevent gear from being lost. In a moving watercraft, unsecure items can easily shift or fall overboard, especially in rough water conditions or during turns. Keeping the gear tied down ensures that it remains safely on the boat, reducing the risk of losing essential items such as tools, equipment, and personal belongings. This practice enhances safety on the water, as losing gear can create hazards for the paddlers or lead to situations where vital equipment is no longer available when needed.

The other options, while they might have some relevance in a broader context of boating, do not address the primary concern of safety and gear integrity while navigating on the water.