Kevin writes: >>> Steve, great list, and sign me up for a lesson! I would like to add one > more item however, and this one goes at the top... > > 0. Have a brain and know how to use it. ;) > > Seriously... good judgment is the best safety skill. I think Kevin hit the nail on the head. The only way to gain good judgement is to push one's limits and gain some beta as to what is physically possible (and impossible). Some of the worst case scenarios are the rec boater who doesn't feel he needs any technical knowledge who paddles into an environment he is unfamiliar with, be it conditions, traffic, current, waves, etc. They enjoy the thrill up until dudu hits the fan. We recommend lessons even for the rec boater, and 90% of the time the newbie understands and signs up! If not, the chances of reading about 'em on www.darwinawards.com or in the local newspaper are greater. ;-) steve Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe N 45º 39' 47" 250 NE Tomahawk Isle Dr. W 122º 36' 16" Portland, OR 97217 Web: www.aldercreek.com Phone: 503.285.0464 Email: aldercreek_at_qwest.net *************************************************************************** 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/ ***************************************************************************
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