Re: [Paddlewise] How and when to speak up

On Tue, 2 Nov 1999 rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com wrote:

> 1.  Should one speak up always when confronted with such situations of
> pretty off-the-mark paddling approaches?  I don't mean talking with
> someone who is wearing a farmer john when you think the situation calls
> for a full suit or not having spare paddles etc. i.e. incremental
> differences rather than wholesale ones.  I mean something very basic
> like seeing some one with jeans and windbreakers in Northeast paddling
> in December.

My vote: yes. What if a tragedy occurred, and you knew you MIGHT have
prevented it? (Basically a selfish reason, of course, since probably you
won't influence them at that time. But you might start them thinking about
it for next time. Some of us have to be nagged just a bit ;-)

> 2.  What is the best way of vocalizing the dichotomy between their
> oblivious paddling approach and a more prudent approach that experienced
> paddlers tend to adhere to?  

How about a cordial conversation, including something like, "Wow, you must
be really chilly after you roll that boat, you LIKE <big smile> that kind
of thing, huh?" and if they say they don't plan on getting wet, a
thoughtful pause, and "Um, how often do you paddle around here?" I.e., not
direct advice, unless they ask for it, but some questions to start them
thinking on their own. Of course one could say they're apparently not
capable of that, but some folks are just more careless than stupid.


Elaine Harmon - eilidh_at_dc.seflin.org - eharmon_at_cs.miami.edu


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