Re: [Paddlewise] BCU Proficiency Award

From: Dan Hagen <dhagen_at_methow.com>
Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998 10:08:23 -0800
Chuck Holst wrote:
> 
> ...SNIP... 
> the Four Star award certifies that you have the skills and
> knowledge to paddle on open water in a group led by a
> competent leader. However, to pass the exam, you must
> be able to prove that you have already paddled on open water.

This makes sense to me.  I can't imagine certifying someone as competent
to paddle on open water if they haven't done so.  The same thing applies
to conducting brain surgery, flying an airplane, piloting a vessel, or
just about any other activity where one can be certified as competent. 
There is always some risk associated with having the inexperienced
obtain the practice that is necessary to become competent, but there is
no good alternative.  The best one can do is to attempt to create the
conditions that will allow the necessary experience to be obtained in a
relatively safe manner. 

Dan Hagen
Bellingham, Washington
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Received on Mon Feb 16 1998 - 10:10:28 PST

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