Re: [Paddlewise] The risk of Cold water Immersion

Hudpad asked,

>Why is requiring lincenses for various types of recreational boats in 
certain 
areas a bad idea? 

 I don't believe that people would be against licensure if it would improve 
safety.  Practical experience has shown me that programs generally become 
Beaurocratic snafus and highly ineffective.  They cost to much money to 
initiate and maintain.  The paddlers who continue in more than a casual manor 
tend to seek info via groups, clubs, publications and other paddlers.  It is 
the newbie that needs direction to stay safe until he learns more.

 There have been rumblings in this group and others about instructors.  
Becoming an instructor does not mean that you are an Olympic paddler, it 
simply means that you have successfully completed the course requirements and 
agree to adhere to the guidelines of your certifying organization when 
teaching a class.

 The number of certified instructors falls way short of the number of 
Newbies.  The only reason that I am harping on certified instruction is to 
assure minimum standards.  If the instructor teaches to the proper level, the 
Newbie should be safe.

 Kayaking must be self regulating.  Like diving, unless I am mistaken, you do 
not need a license to dive, but you do have to show some certification to 
have tanks filled.
  
 
 The casual kayaker is at risk much more so than the enthusiastic Newbie who 
seeks advice.

 Bruce
WEO
www.wholeearthoutfitters.com
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