RE: [Paddlewise] Safety in Recreational Kayaks

When we paddle with a group I think we have responsibilities to the group as
well as to ourselves.  Yes, wearing a PFD or dressing for immersion is a
personal responsiblity.  And, yes, if someone capsizes in cold water without
a PFD or immersion clothing, they are the ones most likely to be killed or
to learn a hard lesson.  But their bad judgement does not affect them alone.
It affects their families and friends, it affects those who put themselves
at risk to save a fool.  

While I agree with those who say more regulation will not solve the problem,
I do think I have a right to say that I will not paddle with someone who
refuses to wear their PFD.  I have a right to say I will not go on a trip
with someone who does not have the gear they need to take care of
themselves.  I have a right to expect that if someone wants to paddle with
me they will stay close enough to be helped or to help others in the group.
Likewise, those who think I'm too rigid in my expectations are free to
paddle with people who have different standards.


Dana Dickson 

Steve Holtzman wrote:
 > -----Original Message-----
 > Do I wear a PFD every time I paddle---ABSOLUTELY. But I 
 > CHOOSE to wear it.
 > Does that mean I can tell someone else they HAVE to--no. But I will
 > certainly tell them that I would feel better if they were 
 > and that I would
 > not want to jeopardize my own safety to help them if they 
 > don't want take
 > some simple precautions to help themselves.
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