[Paddlewise] Part II: A trip that could've gone wrong

In a message dated 3/8/00 7:26:01 PM, baker_at_montana.com writes:

<< This in and of itself might not have been a problem if he had a

bombproof roll ("the Malagiaq/native Greenlander factor") but he

didn't.  Capsize in his case would have meant getting quite wet. >>

Tough call, Shawn,
    Certainly if you have a relationship with Ryan you can ease him over to 
safety by explaining how uncomfortable his exposure makes you feel. That it 
is difficult for you to relax and enjoy with the potential for disaster 
hanging over his head. If he's a friend or even just a reasonable person, he 
should be able to appreciate your concern and take action to alleviate the 
potential for mishap.
    Regarding the shop, it would cost them next to nothing to toss in a pump 
and paddlefloat with each rental. But I fear the shops like Chuck Holst was 
describing are far and few between, the shop that would only rent after 
completion of a basic safety course. Not many shops are going to refuse 
business for the sake of a few boneheads that don't know better.
    Lastly, don't beat yourself up over it. You will fine tune your safety 
checklist over time as various issues present themselves. This event will 
certainly stay with you and affect you safety planning for the rest on your 
days. We can't always nail every detail by planning in the abstract, 
sometimes we need a real life hazard to whack us up side the head so we can 
remember it.
    As individuals and as a group, we should strive to review and analyze 
safety and/or procedural failings. But we should also stay positive and 
concentrate on the benefits of each lesson we are given. It serves no one to 
criticize another paddlers attempt at safe paddling. So for me, I see that 
you did approach the paddle with safety in mind and left with even more 
knowledge and information to protect you and your trip mates on future trips. 
I just wonder if you're going to make me go through some safety checklist 
when you finally come east.

Take care Shawn and give yourself some credit!

Jed
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