[Paddlewise] Night paddle - night lights, kayak, Near Miss

I had a recent near miss with a barge which brings out several of the points
that have been discussed on the night light issue.

I frequently paddle the Mississippi and other rivers with heavy barge
traffic.  In general they aren't much of a problem, I don't want to be in
the middle of the traffic channel and they don't want to be near the shore.

On a recent night paddle South of Grafton, IL, just north of St. Louis,  I
was about 60 yards off shore.  Along the shore was  River Road with
substantial traffic.  I had a life jacket light attached to the shoulder of
my pfd, a 360 degree white light under the bungee in front of me and a
flashlight within reach.

I had dealt with several power boats crossing my path with no problem.  I
shut off the light in front of me because it was drawing bugs and it's glare
was greatly reducing my night vision.

 I noticed a boat upstream from me near the shore go behind something.  I
knew there weren't any islands in that area.  Looking closer I made out a
green light and a red light about 20 feet apart.  Barge! heading my way.  I
flashed my light and paddled hard towards shore out of its way, and was well
clear when it passed.

A little later heading back downstream I wasn't as lucky.  Despite my
increased attentiveness, against the River Road traffic I did not pick out
the running lights or shadow of an upstream bound barge until we were within
about 60 feet.  He saw me about the time I saw him.  He cut his engine, hit
his horn and with his floodlight he motioned me to pass on his left.  I
cleared the lead barge by less than 20 feet.  Adrenelin and fast boats can
be a good combination.

A few lessons:
1. know traffic patterns.  I now know that at this point on the river the
barges get right next to shore going both upstream and downstream.

2. A shoulder light is blocked by your head for a good portion of arc in
front of you and is too dim in areas with background lights

3. On major inland rivers a radio to monitor traffic can be a lifesaver.

I will probably upgrade my lighting, but I haven't decided how yet.
Something bright enough to be noticed, yet directional enough to maintain
night vision.


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