Re: [Paddlewise] Who picks up the rescue tab

Nick wrote;

> For the purposes of debate. If there is a good chance that a search will 
> be mounted without your consent, is it a responsible act to have tools 
> that will make that search easier. For example, if you tell your wife you 
> will be back in 7 days and after 10 days she calls the authorities, you 
> now have a search whether you wanted one or not. Not knowing your 
> relationship with your wife, I apologize if this scenario is impossible. 
> But is it better to have equipment that will make the search easier, if 
> there is going to be a search anyways?

I have a living will. I expect my wife and children to honor it. It tells 
when and what life saving measures to take and under what conditions to stop 
them once begun. It also tells them what to do with my remains. I expect 
them to honor that as well.

The same applies to my wilderness trips. I prefer a different question. Is 
it a responsible act to initiate a search contrary to some one's  express 
desires?

I see no reason why I should make it easy for them or anyone else to make a 
choice contrary to my will. In fact, taking equipment that makes a search 
easier may imply that I really don't mean what I say. Either I mean it or I 
don't.

Occasionally one has no choice. For example (there may be others) if you 
travel with some one else it often pays to respect their wishes to avoid an 
unpleasant confrontation if they insist on certain gear. Faced with an 
adamant person I usually give in but don't travel with them again. Also, 
some governments insist on certain gear. I don't like it but I respect the 
law.

I consider this kind of thing a PERSONAL philosophy. If anyone disagrees and 
insists on searching for me of their volition then have fun. Enjoy the 
challenge. :)
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