[Paddlewise] we have an important role

Folks,

Please read
  http://www.sjmercury.com/premium/local/docs/drowned12p.htm

This is not the first time that kayakers save lives at that very
same place, Half Moon Bay. 

It is clear that thanks to our presence, and our ability
to handle rough seas (advanced kayakers with good rolls, that is)
we are in much better shape for rescuing fishermen and other
recreational boaters in a timely manner than anyone else.

But, when was the last time you practiced rescuing swimmers and
unconscious people on the water?  It is not as easy as it might 
seem--if your are by yourself you have to use the paddlefloat
as an outrigger to haul the person on your deck and apply
rescue breathing while help arrives, or a second kayaker would
tow the vitim and rescuer into the harbour or close enough to
the beach--.

Please, let us start practicing the skill of rescuing swimmers,
as our presence in the water really makes a difference.

happy paddling,
- Julio
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