>> I'm finding it curious that debate is occurring about whether >> commercial kayaking outfits should require clients to demonstrate ability to do a wet exit before setting out. There is however no mention of requiring that clients demonstrate the ability to swim, or even to tread water, or speak English, or be in good health. I have had a number of people in my classes who cannot swim or tread water, but with a pfd on this is hardly an issue. I have had a number of people in my classes who could barely speak any English, as well a couple of deaf folks, but they were still able to pick up on most of what I was trying to teach. And I have had a number of people with physical handicaps, as well as oldsters in their seventies and eighties who had a great time on the water! The bottom line here is, as I have always tried to maintain, to know one's actual and realistic limits and stay well within them. Now I also know a number of "experienced" paddles who are strong swimmers in good health with a firm grasp of the English language who are nevertheless, at least in my opinion, accidents looking for a place to happen. Scott So.Cal. *************************************************************************** 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/ ***************************************************************************
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