Re: [Paddlewise] Kids and PFDs - Risks

From: Dave Kruger <kdruger_at_pacifier.com>
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2006 17:45:50 -0700
Derek wrote:
> I recently finished reading "Deep Trouble."  Several of the scenarios
> had "inadequate equipment" issues. In many cases, technology such as
> signaling devices, flotation, and cold weather clothing would have 
> reduced the severity of this situation significantly. Does the person
> who goes out kayaking with nothing more than a paddle and a pair of
> shorts and a cotton t-shirt have a techno-phoboa or are they just plain 
> foolish?

Mostly foolish, with a good admixture of plain old ignorance.  Matt Broze 
wrote many (most?) of those accounts.  I bet he can give a very cogent answer.

> What is the impact of technologies such as "breathable fabrics" like
> Tropos and Gortex?  One could argue that these fabrics have made risky
> behaviour safer.  One could also argue that they have made it safer to
> go places that one has no business being to begin with. Thoughts?

I think nil, considering that either a breathable- or nonbreathable-top 
will do the job.  It is not the breathability that leads people on to deeds 
over their heads, it is that foolish thing, and inexperience, I think.

Some of the people I paddle with refuse to wear immersion protection 
clothing, and have very marginal bracing and recovery skills.  It makes for 
some powerful restrictions on where I am comfortable paddling with them. 
If they were not dear friends, I'd forgo paddling with them entirely.

Derek, I had two scary incidents last season (2005; shoulder has kept me 
off the water since June), summarized here before you subscribed.  I can 
send them to you back channel if you like.  Deep Trouble is everywhere, and 
easy to find.

-- 
Dave Kruger
Astoria, OR
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Received on Thu Oct 19 2006 - 17:45:45 PDT

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