Re: [Paddlewise] Safety Equipment (was Mutual Assistan

gathompson_at_bc.sympatico.ca wrote:

> As a new paddler can you more seasoned folks supply suggestions of safety/emergency equipment you
carry ?  What do you carry during a 2 hour trip vs. a 5 day trip.  How
about winter vs. summer
necessities.  What do you consider essential vs. "nice to have".

The list will vary with location and skills, etc., but two essentials I
don't go
without are a knife and an easy to make fire.

In Antarctica you never go anywhere without your full parka, ice axe, food 
(usually chocolate bars), ice glasses, and other items prescribed locally.
Carrying a radio and being signed out are generally required at all
stations.

Having water is always a good idea, at the very least carry something to
keep water in and a way to purify it. Condoms make good emergency water
holders.

Shelter, even a couple of trash bags can do a lot to help keep the
elements
off.

The big bandannas can be used for everything from sun protection to
bandages
to splints and slings to ... well lots of stuff as needed.

Adjust for local climate, in the tropics sun protection and water are top
priorities, while in the arctic, staying warm is tops.
Water is always inportant but the way to get and use it changes.

This is a subject that can and does fill several books, please read a few
of them.

Remember, if you are separated form your boat then you have only what is
on your person (on PFD) to survive. Have a knife and fire making gear on
yourself at all times.
If you have gear in a 'bailout' bag, you probably want to condition
yourself to
grab the bag in a wet exit.
Teathering the bag to yourself is an entanglement risk but might produce
less
risk than that of loosing the boat and your survival gear. It depends on
the individual circumstances.

I'm sure this will produce a long and interesting thread.  :-)

michael
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