RE: [Paddlewise] Sea Kayaker attrition rate

 -----Original Message-----
> From: Nick Von Robison [mailto:n.v.rob_at_deltanet.com]
snip
> Whoa, I was only inquiring about any existing stats, not 
> proposing that I or anyone
> else on PW compile them.  
snip
> 
> Dave Seng (or anyone else) I would suggest that there are CG 
> (or other agencies)
> files on sea kayaking deaths which are available for public perusal.

  While I agree that it might be a big task, I think that the success of the
AWA/Charlie Walbridge database is rooted in the information that he/they
receive from paddlers around the country.  I don't believe that Charlie or
Lee Belknap (AWA Safety Chair) spend significant portions of their days
searching for information.  If interest in this type of project is shown I'd
definitely be willing to contact the AWA and Charlie Walbridge to get more
details on the operation.
  The problem that I see with CG files, law enforcement records, etc is
three-fold:

1. The information is not gathered together in one easy to access location

2. The accidents are often not reviewed by knowledgeable paddlers

3. There is little (if any) attempt by these agencies to disseminate
information learned as a result of the accident investigations.

  If you've read Matt & George's book "Deep Trouble" you can probably
understand the incredible value derived from reviewing even a limited number
of accidents (although in great detail).  Could an accident database of sea
kayak and non-white water accidents help promote greater safety in the sport
in years to come?  I think that perhaps the answer is yes - if for no other
reason than that the information would be easily accessible and therefore
_visible_ to paddlers of all experience levels.
  If the concept is deemed worthy of discussion - and we could get PW
"sponsorship" (diskspace/DB backend/XHTML coding assist/etc) - then I'm open
to doing a little investigatory work.  
  Maybe Matt Broze or George Gronseth will have something to contribute to
conversation (that's a red carpet invitation Matt!) - they probably dealt
with many of the issues that a project like this would face while
researching the information for their book.
  If I'm off my rocker and in urgent need of a salt water sinus cleansing
just tell me and I'll drop the whole idea.

Dave Seng
Juneau, Alaska
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