Re: [Paddlewise] Licensing

"Sailboat Restorations, Inc." wrote:
> 
> > serious licensing would put canoe (probably kayak too)
> > rental operations and the like out of business?
 
> I'm not so sure.  Auto licensing hasn't put auto rental places out of
> business.  

That's because almost everyone is licensed, even if they don't own a car
or are away from home.

> ...I think levels of licensing would be appropriate.  For
> example, Canoe/Flatwater Level: could be obtained by simply passing a short
> test regarding the use of safety gear and demonstrating an ability to
> control the boat.  (This test could be administered by a rental company,
> which would have certain responsibilities under the law by virtue of being
> licensed to administer the test and grant such license.)

I can't imagine any outfitter agreeing to that. If you certify me as
competent, take my $$ and rent me a boat, and I drown, who's responsible
for my death? For the benefit of our international correspondents, I'll
answer the question: you are, unless your lawyer is better than mine.

Steve
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