Re: [Paddlewise] Helmet Stowage/PFD

I agree with Peter,

This discussion has been going around with some arguments repeated. My 
personal opinion goes in favour of wearing the PFD always based on personal 
experience.

I always, always wear the PFD. Even when I was practicing rolls in my 11 by 
11 foot patio swimming pool. Just the habit of having always similar 
conditions, until one day I was with some of my electrical business 
customers and they wanted to try my kayak. I lent them my PFD, since they 
had never been in a kayak, and we paddled short distances in a small 
estuary. Then I decided to show them how one can rescue himself and I 
turned over and started trying to place the paddlefloat. Suddenly I found 
myself swallowing water and doing the maneuvers that I am very confident 
with in a clumsy manner. I realized I didn´t have the extra flotation of 
the PFD that keeps my head above the water, while  I keep my legs inside 
the cockpit of the upside down kayak, floating easily without loosing kayak 
or paddle.

I realized that it is so much easier to help others and help yourself with 
that free help of the PFD. I have found also that trouble comes when you 
less expect it, when all conditions seem under control, when everybody 
claims that they are capable of handling the conditions. Under those 
circumstances I don´t feel that it is fair to risk oneself to rescue 
somebody who is running out of breath because he can not reenter his kayak 
(I have seen it happen) but is sinking because he refused to wear a PFD. 
Even if it is not fair, one must go and help the guy, so I think it is a 
matter of good team courtesy to be prepared to give all others the minimum 
trouble possible in case of being in trouble.

Finally, having the PFD helps in many aspects like giving added flotation 
for rolls. Being the body closer to the surface reduces the rolling effort, 
and when you need to roll, there is no time for considerations like putting 
on the PFD under the water.

Rafael
el cayuco chief
www.mayanseas.com
   

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