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

On Thu, 17 Aug 2000, Seng, Dave wrote:

> > From: ralph diaz [mailto:rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com]
> > 
> > It sounds like one workable scenario to me.  And I would like to know
> > what others think about it?  Has any one been in such a predicament?
> 
> Unless you're a trained lifeguard and a very good swimmer, you
> do not ever want to make personal contact with a panicked or struggling
> swimmer (even if you are you won't want to!).

This was my thought immediately, especially multiple panicked swimmers.

I would rather taunt/coax the panicked swimmers into chasing me and my boat
toward shore, paddling backwards to keep track of them.  That way when 
they tired or calmed down it MIGHT be possible to let them grab onto the 
end of the boat.  

I periodically practice having people climb and ride on my boat so I know 
how my boat handles in those conditions - but reasonably well behaved 
people, not panicked ones.

Dave's suggestions and comments are very good, avoid touching or being
touched by a panicked swimmer.  Resorting to whacking them with a 
paddle to get away if necessary.


--
> 
>   As I think about this longer, perhaps the best course of action might be
> to dump the kayak, push it from the bow or stern to a victim (if there are
> two and they're separated you will have to make a choice), and then head for
> shore yourself if it is within your ability - if it's not maybe you
> shouldn't have put yourself in that position.....  There's not a whole lot
> that you're going to be able to do for them if you're not trained and your
> risk could be high.  Don't attempt something like this at the edge of your
> personal performance/safety envelope - there's no guarantee that help will
> arrive in time.
> 
>  I cannot stress strongly enough how dangerous it is to be in the water with
> someone who believes that they're going to drown.  The strength and energy
> they can exhibit while trying to defeat death can be incredible until they
> become exhausted.
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