RE: [Paddlewise] How would you deal with the following situation

Regarding...

<<First, i would not exit my kayak as could impair my safety - particularly
if
water conditions are not calm and wind is blowing.

I would approach very causiously and attempt to instill calm in the
non-swimmers.  If calm prevails, i can then get onto the bow and stern of
the
kayak and paddle to shore.  If calm does not prevail, then switch to plan B.

Another option is to throw them the end of my tow line, have them hold on
and
pull them to shore - if this becomes dangerous I can always unhook the
towline
and free myself.

Another option would be to provide them some type of flotation - a paddle
float,
my pfd (go ahead and scream at me, but in very calm conditions the risk may
not
be s ignificant), a dry bag inflated .....

Most important is for the rescurer to not become a rescuee.>>

	I would agree on the shuffle of action priorities that you indicate
to.

Professional thoughts:

	When a sea rescue is attempted by a non-professional, exiting the
vessel (large or small) is generally considered "the final option" due to
the risk of becoming an additional victim.  However, when the call to action
comes, if an individual has the confidence, acute situational awareness, and
a bit of luck, it's amazing what one will do to save another's life.

Personal reflection:

	In my younger days, I watched a couple of buddies (fellow Marines)
rush into burning CH53 Super Stallion that had crashed, almost on top of us,
and pull out three men.  A minute later, forced back by the flames of the
jet fuel, the rest of us watched as the rest of her crew succumbed to the
flames.

	These men were by no stretch of the imagination prepared or equipped
for this situation.  All they possessed was the willingness and the guts to
try... fortunately, the dice came up in their favor.  To the men they saved,
no words can ever document their gratitude.

	Am I suggesting that we throw caution to the wind and roll the dice?
Not a chance!  All I'm saying is, no matter how we debate the appropriate
steps, procedures and options, the "final decision to act" is solely a
matter of personal judgment and accountability.

	Just my worthless two cents.

- Lou
San Diego, CA
000817/1323

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