Re: [Paddlewise] CKF: Entrapment

I would caution against swimming underwater to assist someone who is panic
stricken.  Panic stricken people often behave in irrational ways and might
grab onto their rescuer thus putting the rescuer at risk of drowning or
injury.  Only as a last resort would I consider swimming underwater to a
panic stricken paddler, especially if the victim was big enough or strong
enough to overpower me.

Being prepared for rescues involving entrapment and reentry with large
people should remind us of the need to paddle in minimum groups of three.
Although we practice frequently, I doubt that any of us feel confident in
our ability to handle a person who weighs considerably more than we do and
has the enhanced strength that comes from being panicked.

Patrick Martin

----- Original Message -----
From: <Gproaction_at_aol.com>
To: <embro_at_sbcglobal.net>; <DLOCPA_at_aol.com>; <PaddleWise_at_paddlewise.net>;
<ckf_at_paddlewise.net>
Sent: Wednesday, December 31, 2003 7:10 PM
Subject: Re: CKF: Entrapment


> It  would be also possible to swim underwater and tear the sprayskirt
loose
>
> Regards,
> George J. Miller
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