Re: [Paddlewise] How it happens

From: John Fereira <jaf30_at_cornell.edu>
Date: Thu, 13 Dec 2001 10:46:57 -0500
At 03:04 PM 12/12/01 +0000, skimmer_at_mail3.enter.net wrote:
>Regarding ignorance, let's hear something relative to dealers that
>sell boats with an irresponsibly sunny view of risks when they send
>total novices out the door with the new plastic bathtub.  These new
>paddlers hit the water in the cold season dressed in street clothes.
>If they have a PFD, it's stuffed under the deck or tied to the boat.
>They have no flotation in the boats, know nothing about wind, tides,
>surf, rescues, cold water, etc.
>
>Many deaths I have reviewed happened to victims who are out on their
>first trip. The victims had no idea of books, magazines, clubs,
>safety issues, available courses. They are sure they will never
>capsize, and if they did capsize, they are certain that they would be
>able to swim to shore- no matter the water temperature (no PFD, and
>dressed in street clothes and boots).
>
>What is the answer?

Education.  That's where we, as experienced paddlers come in.


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Received on Thu Dec 13 2001 - 07:47:18 PST

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