RE: [Paddlewise] Landing a victim through surf

>on Thu, 5 Nov 1998, Sisler, Clyde wrote:
>> > That could be a very long line.  If it doesn't stretch that far, bring
the
>> beach guy back out and shepard the victim in, one on either side of him.
>> His/her job is simply to keep the 3 boats rafted.
>> 
At 01:41 PM 11/5/98 -0800, Kevin wrote:
>In my opinion, having two or more adjacent kayaks landing together in
>close proximity through dumping surf is a TERRIBLE idea. Sea kayaks are
>very difficult to control in the surf, and almost always turn immediately
>into a broach. The forces incorporated into a surfing sea kayak are
>tremendous. If the victim and rescuer(s) are caught by the same wave, then
>chances of a brutal collision are very high. I think that this would put
>the rescuer AND rescuee into greater danger than before, which is a
>cardinal sin in any kind of rescue.


Both have stated valid concerns, and there are others.  But it seems to me
that a lot depends on what level of surf we're dealing with, as well as
what level of incapacitation of the victim.  What may work in 2-3 foot
dumpers won't necessarily work in 4-8 foot or larger surf.  That's why
trying it out for real and practicing it will help develop the paddlers'
judgment required to know the difference and to assess the situation when
it confronts us.
	Wish someone will tell us what they've actually tried, along with a very
complete description of the conditions and resulting observations.  I
recall Steph Dutton describing in Sea Kayaker magazine his use of a drogue
to counter broaching, and then backing into the beach through some really
big breakers, both solo and with two boats linked by a towline.  But that
was not with a hypothermic or unconscious paddler.
	
	May everybody's surfing be intentional,
	or at least fun!

	John



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