RE: [Paddlewise] Kayaks and Visibility

Human activity always seems to involve a compromise. 
Bit like kayaks ;-)

Local interpretation of International standards gives us flexibility to do
good & necessary things (that are perhaps necessary only because of local
conditions) - and sadly they also give the flexibility to do dumb-ass things
because of inadequate experience by local regulators.

At the public hearing (a few weeks ago) on kayak visibility, the Councillors
were concerned that a 'torch displayed in time...' would be hard to do in
rough conditions. As you might expect, we were dealing with elected
representatives who had no kayaking experience and undoubtedly felt we were
all flirting with disaster at the best of times.

In responding to Councillors' questions, I was able to show my LED
head-torch - which I normally wear when kayaking 'in traffic' at night. I
know (from the comments of paddling buddies) that it easily works at one-km
- and has quite a 'cold' white colour that makes it stand out. I prefer it
to the standard type of big floating 6-volt torch that you might keep in a
car boot - simply because it is always 'to hand' and can be easily directed
where I'm looking (compass, reef or oncoming powerboat) while keeping both
hands on the paddle.

In fact, that head-torch is small enough and useful enough that it lives in
my day-hatch and finds use in sea-caves and often for putting up or striking
the tent.

The head-torch explanation brought immediate relaxation to the Councillors -
they could see that an alternative to a fixed and 'always-on' light could be
made to work quite easily.

We are awaiting the final wording of the bylaw and very much hope that the
choice of fixed light or torch will remain at the discretion of the
individual kayaker.

Personally, if I am kayaking solo in traffic I'll continue to run my
360-fixed-blue plus my head-torch (turned on as necessary). This seems to
keep me alive. When rock-hopping with a moon and in a group, I'll switch
them all off. I believe that these are the safe & sensible responses to the
conditions - let's hope they remain legal.

Best Regards
Paul
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