Re: [Paddlewise] Safety and Novices

Doug Lloyd wrote:

<LARGELY SNIPPED>

> I've taken a lot of risks over the years - everything form being pinned and
> beat up against barnacle covered dock supports as a big ferry pulled away,
> to being blown back out to sea just near the completion of a long, rough,
> 20 mile crossing. I've always got out of it due to shear determination and
> will power, but not everybody has such mind over matter powers - or perhaps
> it has just been plain good luck or God's angel rescue squad she keeps on
> standby for me.
> 
> I normally take risks with my eyes wide open, knowing the dangers and
> accepting the risks. A novice might not be aware of the dangers, or have
> the appropriate reactions, stamina, backup gear and know-how for use in
> poor conditions. 
> 
> Almost all of my close calls have been solo.Some have been with others too.
> I don't want to get the solo debate going again. I just think a lot of
> prudence is required until you develop a "big picture" mentality. I'm
> having a hard time indicating in words what I mean hear overall with this
> post on safety. Perhaps some of our more elite scribes like Ralph can help
> me out here. 

Why appreciative of the accolade, I am not certain I would be of much
help regarding this.  I wouldn't in a million years dream of doing the
stuff that you do.  As people who paddle with me know, I am a confirmed
non-risk taker.  I plan carefully, assess my paddling companions to what
they can do and tailor the trip to their abilities, not mine.  Whether
paddling alone or with others, I constantly monitor conditions and try
to think an hour ahead and quite a distance ahead especially around
points of land for what might lie await out of sight.  This doesn't mean
that I haven't gotten into jams or made bad decisions; you can't control
or anticipate everything.  But I really try my damnest not to get to the
point where my ass is on the line.  I wouldn't be very happy being in
that position and I hope I have the good sense to have found some escape
routes before then.  I certainly am always on the look out for them even
when things seem benign.

This is not meant as a criticism but you yourself recognize the danger
that newcomers might read what you do and think they should do
likewise.  And it is good that you warn them not try to play with your
deck of cards now, and I would add, possibly ever unless they are types
who like getting banged around.

When Jackie Fenton was thinking out loud back channel with some of us
regarding forming a new list server, she really hit it on the head with
the name she came up with, PaddleWise.  Its two meanings.  Stick to
paddling subjects as much as possible, so paddlewise.  But also to help
and encourage us all to paddle wise(ly).  The list has been a success on
both counts.  Even the exceptions prove the rule.

happy paddling,

ralph
-- 
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Ralph Diaz . . . Folding Kayaker newsletter
PO Box 0754, New York, NY 10024
Tel: 212-724-5069; E-mail: rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com
"Where's your sea kayak?"----"It's in the bag."
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