SNIP > So let me just say, what about people like > Duane Strosaker and Doug loyd and how about Ed Gilliet. These guys do some > > pretty intense solo trips that could easily send the wrong message to > beginners. Should they stop? > Not to be a smart a__, but I'll bet that Doug wore his PFD during his recent revisit to the Storm Islands, as do Duane and Ed when they do intense solo trips. > Whether or not one wears a pfd is, I feel, in the same category as > whether > or not it is OK to paddle alone. > I disagree. While I do think that solo trips play a part in the bigger safety issue, I think that they are too disimilar to be discussed within the context of the PFD portion. Afterall, spare batteries for a VHF radio can be considered a safety issue, but not deserving (IMHO) of inclusion in this discussion. I think you have to classify similar items together, discuss them as a group, then, interlink groups together, taking them all into consideration when paddeling and making your personal decision. All the classifications together is what I would call the "safety matrix". For example, I might create a classification called "Self Rescue Items". I'd include both PFDs and Paddle Floats init and possibly some other items. I wouldn't include discussion of items/topics that fit into a classification called "Skill Level", or "Group Dynamics", or "weather conditions", etc. since I'm talking specifically about self rescue "items", not skills and methods, otherwise, "Skill Level" might be included. Although I think all the categories contribute to the "safety matrix" and must be considered as a whole when you make your personal decision, I think it's too difficult to talk about disimilar classifications simultaneously and have a meaningful discussion. On the extreme side, carrying beans for dinner is a safety issue --- what if you get gas cramps, your skills are compromised as a result, and you capsize and can't self rescue properly? Again, not trying to be a smart A__, but I think it's important to prevent "scope creep" when discussing certain topics. This topic isn't "SAFETY" in general, it started specifically as PFDs (I think...it's been so long now). Anyway, some very good points of view have been brought to light demonstrating that a simple issue on the surface isn't so simple when you get into the details. While some of my thoughts have been challenged, I'm still of the opinion that the PFD should be worn at all times, but I certainly respect everyones right to make their own decision, and am thankful to have the opportunity to participate in these discussions which challenge my mindset and make me think......... now if I could just convince my wife that I really do use my brain from time to time..... :-) Rick *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced/forwarded outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
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