Re: [Paddlewise] Victoria fatality and accidents in general

----- Original Message -----
From: "Dave Kruger" <dkruger_at_pacifier.com>
To: "Paddlewise" <paddlewise_at_paddlewise.net>
> In answer:  naaaah, we don't need licenses.  We need education.

I'd go with that, but that immediately implies a minimum standard of
education, which implies an assosciation, which mean a big organisation,
training, publicity, and therfore some poor sods who get selected to
"volunteer" for a lifetime of administration!

> To wit:  outfitters in the northwest part of the US seem to demand some
sort of
> assurance renters are "qualified," either in the form of a card certifying
the
> renters have taken a basic sea kayaking course (wet exit, re-entry
methods,
> basic hypothermia instruction, etc.), or in the form of a *really
convincing*
> description of your experience.  Some will not allow the experience you
allege
> to suffice;  they demand you take a basic class, anyway.  Mostly CYA for
> possible litigation, I expect.

It's a start isn't it? At least it weeds out the ones that can work out
where the bow is because it has two pointy ends.

CYA is the most disgusting form of human behaviour, but I believe it's an
obligation, because people always look for alternate explanations to
Murphy's law.

> We will never prevent the truly unable from endangering themselves.

Right. Especially if they drink first.

A thought: if a certain proficiency level becomes an obligation, I'll be up
the creek without a paddle or a kayak. There are no sea kayak organisations
in Switzerland. Maybe I'll start the official Swiss federation, with me as
president, member and examination authority for kayaking competence.
Bye,
Kevin.


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