Re: [Paddlewise] Flares / Smokes

Peter,

Wayne Horodowich and Derek Hutchinson just put on a discussion forum at a
local paddling shop Wed night and this is one of the topics we were
discussing. Wayne also had his new video with him and was showing clips. One
of the clips he showed was a demo of the different flare types that are
available and how they look from just under a mile a way both at night and
during the day. If you get a chance, this is  worthwile watching.

AS A RESULT OF SEEING THIS, I BOUGHT A SIGNAL MIRROR YESTERDAY. The flares
seemed to be fairly visible at night if you are looking in the right
direction at the right time, but almost all were impossible to see during
the day. Smoke seemed to be the best for daylight visibility followed by the
parachute flares. Unfortunately, the parachute flares are extremely big and
costly (about $45 US each). Wayne also suggested not carrying the flares on
your PFD. He suggested a small dry bag with your rescue equipment be carried
behind your seat. For what it's worth, Wayne personally carries a pistol
type flare gun that comes with several flares and the total cost is about
$45 for the gun and flares. In the video, it seemed about the easiest to use
and was as visible as any of the other types of flares.

Steve Holtzman
----- Original Message -----
From: PeterO
To: Paddlewise (E-mail)
Sent: September 21, 2001 1:25 AM
Subject: [Paddlewise] Flares / Smokes


G'day,

Its been a while since flares were discussed and mine are due to be
replaced. Wondered if anyone had recommendations on flares that could be
carried in a lifejacket or any other comments about flares for kayaks. I'm
particularly interested in dual purpose flare/smoke devices, where to get
them and how to use them! For example once the flare is used can it be
turned over and the smoke sction used? Has the technology changed much in
the last 3 years?

All the best, PeterO
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PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed
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