Re: [Paddlewise] PFD debate fuel?

When doing my regular 2 hours paddle along the coast of the lake where I
live, I admit to seldom wear my PFD. I admit to be hypocrite, but I will
never encourage people to not wear a PFD, even if I think it is safe.
(Broke this rule now by admitting here that I don't always wear a PFD.
But as a punishment for this, tomorrow I will go paddling with my PFD!)
If someone asks me if they should wear their PFD I will always say yes,
because I figure that if they have to ask, the probably should?

My own rule for wearing a PFD or not, is if I can swim to shore
after falling in the water. But if not, I will probably not paddle there too!
Because if I then fall overboard, and I cannot swim to the shore, 
I will have to rely on help from others, who probably will not be there
when I need them. And I just don't like to paddle dangerously with the idea
that if something goes wrong I will rely on the rescue of others,
who might not even be there (in time)?
If I do go paddling with a PFD on, the risks of falling
in the water and the risks when in the water should also
be minimal then, and self rescue should be a reliable option.

The argument for always wearing a PFD because the example you give to
others, sounds very valid to me, but on the other hand I have been worried
about my actual paddling (alone with an open canoe) on the lake here could
in fact inspire people to do the same thing without the judgment
(for one, not to paddle with an offshore wind, and two the water
should be warm enough _for me_ for a 1000 meter swim) and
paddling skills that I have?
A lot of summer tourists here will likely see me paddling into the harbor,
and because it seems to go so easy (I often heard it looks
that way, can't help it) they could decide to paddle on the lake also?
Which I think can be unsafe with or without a PFD.
A PFD will not prevent falling in the water
_and_ may give a false sense of security.

To some this loose ends of thinking may be boring thoughts.
Perhaps my tolerance for boredom is higher?
Or can I find the d[elete] button easier:=)

Dirk Barends


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