An interesting point on this thread is whether mags should be covering such accidents. In the most recent issue of Atlantic Coastal Kayaker, there is a letter to the editor from someone who objects to seeing such stories and Tamsin Venn, the editor, in response explains why it is important to continue covering them. Doug just said something on PaddleWise about how new people might be scared off by all the talk of entrapment with stuck sprayskirts and methods of freeing oneself. There is always a downside or dark side to anything. Manufacturers aren't always happy to see this mentioned and apparently this may be true of some consumers as well. Also as pointed out, celebrities don't seem to be want to be seen wearing a PFD and ads and general magazine coverage tends to forget the PFD and other safety gear in the photo layouts. But there is a bright side. Places like PaddleWise certainly clear the air in frank discussions about safety gear and skills needed as well as couping with specific problems. The club newsletters are better and better at it such as the Chesapeake Paddler Assoc one which often deals with specific problems and solutions. The paddling magazines are better at it too moving more and more to safety tips and considerations along with the nice scenary paddling articles. More and more paddlers are seeking instruction be it ACA or BCU or something else. It is rare to see a truly experienced paddler without a PFD and without cold water clothing on waters below 55 and even 60 degrees (This wasn't true ten years ago). It is hard for a beginner not to be exposed to safety concerns and issues. This wasn't true earlier when even the advise in leading sea kayaking books did not emphasize these; an example, Derek Hutchinson's famous statement in the earliest version of his books about not wanting to go paddling smelling like a stinky frogman--meaning the neoprene and his cavalier attitude about wearing a PFD even at symposiums. Imagine the situation now if that posture and attitude had continued to prevail with the magazines, books, and even clubs. ralph diaz -- ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Ralph Diaz . . . Folding Kayaker newsletter PO Box 0754, New York, NY 10024 Tel: 212-724-5069; E-mail: rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com "Where's your sea kayak?"----"It's in the bag." ----------------------------------------------------------------------- *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Wed Mar 14 2001 - 14:51:50 PST
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