Re: [Paddlewise] Entrapment

One good reason for learning and practicing the bow rescue
is to become more comfortable being upside down, submerged,
and relatively relaxed.  The procedural steps become something
that allows the submerged paddler to regain their focus, get their
bearings, and find a set-up position for action to follow...be it
grabbing a bow and hip-flicking up, or executing a roll.

None of my instructors have ever suggested the bow rescue
to be a particularly effective measure in the field, unless the
situation has people in relative proximity and in conditions
that allow quick maneuvering.  The promise in the practice
seems to be greater confidence in one's ability to stay calm,
maintain focus, and take deliberate action.

With some paddle partners, we know that each of us will
try to roll a few times, then wave for a bow, and then bang the
hull to indicate we were going to wet exit.  We're heading each other's
way in any event, because a wet exit will require an assisted recovery
if time is of the essence.

I'd also argue that the HOG &/or Paddle Reach rescue is likely a move 
that
can be accomplished by a surprising many when the adrenaline flows
and conditions cooperate...but that it is best attempted by those
who rehearse it with some vigilance.  Grabbing the thrashing
forearm of a submerged and panicky paddler can just as quickly
turn into you being the one who is grabbed and yanked over.

-w
***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed
here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire
responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author.
Submissions:     PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net
Subscriptions:   PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************