Re: [Paddlewise] Proposed new PFD use rules

   The reason that it has not been made mandatory for all sea kayakers to
wear a pfd is quite simply the fact that there is no real evidence to
suggest the actual effectiveness of said device. I have neither the time nor
inclination to search for the statistics right now, but from what I recall
the numero uno cause of recreational boater fatalities is actually lack of
experience. As far as the sport of sea kayaking is concerned, it has been my
understanding that as many paddlers have died with their pfd's on as
without, which does not do a lot to support the argument in favor of pfd's.
Once again, the discerning difference between the two groups seems to be
more related to experience then to equipment.
   So while novices would most benefit from wearing a pfd, they are,
unfortunately the group most likely to shun them. To impose a law on those
of us who have the years of experience to know our limitations and paddle
accordingly in order to attempt to force a group who would most likely
ignore it into mandatory compliance is simply a folly. For the experienced
paddler the pfd is just another piece of equipment for which the individual
should have the option to use, OR NOT TO USE! There is nothing magical about
the pfd in the typical sea kayaking scenario. Board and body surfers don't
wear them, paddlecraft surfers generally don't wear then, paddlers of surf
ski's and outriggers generally don't wear them, and none of these groups
have a disapproiate amount of fatalities as a result.

Scott
So.Cal.
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