Re: [Paddlewise] Strobe Question

From: Dave Kruger <kdruger_at_pacifier.com>
Date: Wed, 20 Dec 2006 05:56:57 -0800
The C-light, as Alex points out, radiates in a thin sector, maybe 10-15 
degrees in the vertical direction, in a 360 degree arc around the paddler's 
head.  We tested one of these at night, paddler to paddler, and found that 
the light "strobed" irregularly because of the kayak's bobbing and changes 
in posture of the paddler if worn on the head.

And, it was dim.

Yet, if the paddler were wearing a strobe, it would blink on its own, and 
suffer the effects of bobbing and posture changes, also, further reducing 
the window in which it is visible to a surface-based searcher.

But, it is bright.

I suspect a stronger version of the C-light might be the best compromise 
for a rescue signal, until a search vessel or aircraft is near.  Thennnn, 
and only thennnn, those flares we all carry will be useful.

My personal favorite among these choices is my VHF.

-- 
Dave Kruger
Astoria, OR
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Received on Wed Dec 20 2006 - 05:57:03 PST

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