RE: [Paddlewise] How would you Change to: Can You deal with ...............

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>In six years of
>serious ocean paddling I have never needed my lifejacket but wear it for the
>day I do. I..........................................
>
>         If I had a choice between loosing my spray skirt or my PFD then I
>would give up the PFD every time
>
>         David

A year and a half ago I was paddling North of Malibu, CA.  That day the 
water temp was around 52 F and the air temp was in the mid
60's.  I was dressed for the water temp and was miserably hot paddling and 
thought I had lost my mind.  North of me a few miles a tragedy unfolded 
that I heard about on the news that evening.
A group was paddling a outrigger canoe.  They were struck by an unexpected 
wave, capsized and six men (if my memory doesn't fail me) were now in the 
water.  Two decided to make for shore about 100 yards away.  They both died.
Reason:  Hypothermia???  Drowning.  Real reason:  Neither had on a PFD, 
were not dressed for the water temperature and the others stayed with the 
boat.  These guys were club members, owners of the boat and experienced 
paddlers, but not smart ones in my mind.  They paid a tragic price for 
their carelessness.

The day may have come and gone that we were assisted physically and 
psychologically by the safety precautions that we take as the norm such as 
wearing a PFD.  Not realizing that if we had not been wearing the PFD that 
things would have taken a far different course.  Fear isn't always bad.  It 
has a way of helping to keep us humble and alive longer.

Old aviation saying:  "There are Old Pilots and there are Bold Pilots, but 
no such things as Old Bold Pilots."

Fred
California Kayaker

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