[Paddlewise] Safety

Scott said:
<snip lots>
   I have a question. Is the paddler who overburdens him/herself with
rescue
and safety equipment considered to be safer simply by the mere presence
of
all of the crap they carry? Just how much crap does one need to throw
into
their boat to be considered safe?
---------------
Scott,
First of all, don't feel like you have to make mention of me in
deference to my feelings, practices or whatever on the subject of safety
gear. I understand you are just trying to bring a little balance to the
discussion. My pursuits involve looking for marine hazards, which kind
of rules me out of the discussion in terms of equipment comparisons a
lot of the time.

I really don't think a basic safety kit means packing your compartments
so tight there is no room for food. Was that comment mere hyperbole?
Most of the folks I paddle with on day trips carry a minimum of gear,
and add to it as the weather/season gets colder and/or on more committed
multiday trips, or if they are designated trip facilitator responsible
especially for new paddlers. (Then there's the skinboat guys who pack
nothing but skill and sit in a cold puddle of water all day). But basic
safety gear to me requires minimal space and weight:

1.  A small communication device if needed (amongst the grp).
2.  A small first aid kit/ matches.
3.  A small folding knife.
4.  3 small flares/flashlight in season.
5.  A throw line/combination tow line.
6.  A spare paddle (amongst the grp) or tether.
7.  A paddlefloat or equivalent (or a reliable re-enter and roll) and
perhaps a stirrup if required.
8.  Immersion gear if required/PFD.
9.  A pump or bailer.
10. Some common sense, knowledge, and a safe attitude.

Doesn't sound like that much volume or weight. Perhaps its the volume of
preaching that gets your goat. Turning the dial down would help here,
but maybe folks are trying to counter the minimalist (read the  no gear
rec boat paddler) assumptions. Most experienced paddlers lend weight to
basic safety requirements precisely because many of the items they carry
have had to be used in the past, and/or they have seen/read the need for
some items arise in certain situations. I certainly don't carry all my
redundant safety gear on every trip, and even exclude things like deck
knives sometimes when I'm out with newbies, precisely because I don't
want to demonstrate that "too much crap" message. Sometimes my flares
get wet, so the next day I might leave them drying at home while on a
short intermediate day paddle.

I've also covered reports in SK Mag where the last minute decision to
take a couple of flares changed the outcome of a trip from tragedy to
mild embarrassment. I guess balance is needed here, just like with any
other recreational pursuit or religious activity, etc. Well, at least in
California, you don't need to ever pack an ice ax or crampons :-) Safe
paddling to you Scott.

Doug Lloyd

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