Re: [Paddlewise] Safety first...

From: Dave Uebele <daveu_at_sptddog.com>
Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2001 11:18:56 -0800
Absolutely, and not just for kayaks. I've been tempted to bring a video
camera to the local boat ramp to capture some footage for one
of those "real TV" sort of shows. 

With all the trouble mentioned getting into and out of kayaks,
I think the bigger, trailer boats still take the cake for foolish things
happening getting into and out of the water.
Good ammo to bolster yourself next time you worry about embarrassing yourself
in front of other boaters while getting into a kayak....

I've seen trailers not hooked correctly, so as they try to pull the trailer
away from boat and out of the water, the trailer unhooks and stays in the 
water.

I've also seen someone get their boat on the trailer (pulled on with winch), 
but forget to set the one way ratchet on the winch. As they pull out, 
the winch unwinds, the boat falls off the back of the trailer, and is dragged
up
the boat ramp.  

And of course, just watching most people try to back a trailer down a ramp.
or trying to launch at low tide when there isn't any more ramp...

And I've done my share too. paddling along in an estuary with my daughter
on my lap.  peaceful, calm, smooth water.  Paddle back to shore, brace myself
and swing one leg out to start climbing out, only to realize my leg has
fallen asleep and I overturn as I try to put weight on a non functional leg.

At this same location, I've had someone berate me for wearing a PFD, all
the time going on about how he likes to run class 4 rivers....

So approach the water with a bit of care, humility, and some spare, dry
clothes close at hand.  

Anything you do to return safe and sound is a good thing, and realize that
even with the best precautions, you will have days when you are playing
the fool for someone else's amusement. Get over it, laugh along with
everyone else.

JSpinner_at_aol.com wrote:
> My own take on this is that the getting in and out is that it is the event
> most likely to provide humor and embarrassment. 

-- 
Dave Uebele (daveu_at_sptddog.com)	 Spotted Dog Systems
http://sptddog.com/daveu.html
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Received on Wed Mar 14 2001 - 10:18:07 PST

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