Re: [Paddlewise] Back-up? (was: Rough Water Rescue and Foot Pumps)

K. Whilden wrote:

> Hi Dan,
>
> Have you (or anyone else on this list) ever used one of these devices
> in a
> real situation? ...<snip>...  Also, what are
> the chances of loading it improperly such that it fails to deploy?

If by "real" situation, you mean in cold water with strong winds and
large waves (i.e., the sort of circumstances in which one is likely to
use the device), the answer is no. I have been meaning to do this, but
have not yet done so--the gale-force winds anticipated for this weekend
might provide a good testing opportunity. :-)  I am optimistic that it
will work in these circumstances, but my optimism has not yet been
tested.

As for the loading issue, one can never rule out the possibility of such
a failure. Given the simplicity of loading the device, I would think
that such problems would be rare for a reasonably cautious user. But all
devices can be expected to fail at some point.

By the way, there is a lot to be said for Julio's approach (the
solid-float-on-the-back-deck).  While it takes up more space on the
deck, there is the obvious advantage of not having to inflate it. On the
other hand, perhaps the larger profile of the solid float would make it
more likely to be ripped off the deck in breaking waves. Still, the
simplicity of a solid float is very appealing.

Dan Hagen


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