RE: [Paddlewise] Paddlefloat

I should credit Ray Killen with the practice of using a tether on a 
paddle float. If you've every paddled with him and the topic comes 
up, just say you have one. :-)
The tether isn't just to keep the float from blowing away when you 
start the rescue. It also allows you after you get back into the boat 
to pull it off and let it drag until you're feeling balanced again. 
Chances are if you come out of your boat because of rough conditions 
it may happen again. The tether gives you the option of just leaving 
it and going on or tucking it under your bungies without it blowing 
away.

JFF


At 11:23 AM 11/21/01 -0800, you wrote:
>Sid said:
>
>"I can do the "t" rescue in 45 to 60 seconds with the "victim" in a 
>dry boat. "
>
>I would agree with the idea that someone who has experience with 
>assisted rescues can get a wet paddlers back in there boat faster 
>then a paddle float. The only time I really use my float is when 
>showing students how to use them so speed isn't an issue. More 
>importantly I find most people who do carry and use them don't use 
>any type of a tether on them. If you've ever practiced using one 
>when it's windy you'll find a blown up paddle float can really MOVE 
>across the water once inflated.

It's probably worth noting that in the message that started this 
thread an inflatable paddlefloat was not being used.  While an 
untethered foam float would also blow away fairly easily, the 
practice of putting the paddle into the float while it's still under 
the deck bungies would certainly help. Putting the float on the 
paddle first (even before flipping the boat back upright) seems to be 
a good idea.  I've seen a technique in one of the paddling magazines 
that uses the paddle with float attached to assist in lifting the bow 
to flip and empty the boat.


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