RE: [Paddlewise] PFDs

G'Day,

I've got into the habit of wearing a PFD all the time having been caught out
going for a paddle in a bay without one and then meeting up by chance with
friends who were keen to paddle down the coast. Once, a long time ago, this
got me into a fair bit of trouble when we encountered unexpected currents
that delayed us until the afternoon winds and sea came up to about 20knots
and 1.5m. 

Its also a part of our club culture, which focuses on kayaking at sea and
whose insurance requires us to follow a given set of procedures related to
weather and gear for formal club trips.

Anyway the need to wear a PFD is buried deep in my psyche along with
checking for my paddlefloat, paddle tether and closed hatches as the final
things I check just before pushing off into the waves. I wonder what are the
last things that others check before pushing off?

Three years ago I learnt to ride a bicycle. It was uncanny how a new
situation awakens that deep seated sense of caution. As I got on the bike
I'd feel quite uncomfortable without the feel of a PFD on my back:~)

All the best, PeterO
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