Re: [Paddlewise] float coats, VHF radios, what to tell the public

On Mon, Dec 20, 2010 at 6:48 PM, skimmer <skimmer_at_enter.net> wrote:

>
>
>
> To what extent does a float coat exclude water from around the torso? Who
> has tried such gear in cold water?
>

I had a Mustang float coat (early version) in the late 1970s when I was
working on drill ships from Greenland and other icy places. I didn't test it
in cold water but I doubt that it would "exclude" much because the "crotch
flap" goes over clothes. However Mustang claimded that it was better than
nothing and I believe them

>
>
> Do most of you carry a VHF OR cell phone on your PFD or Boat when out on
> cold water?
>

I carry my cell phone in a watertight plastic bag every time I kayak (or
bicycle for that matter). I generally carry a handheld VHF when I am
paddling salt water.

>
>
> Are VHF radios effective/monitored on inland waters/lakes/rivers?
>

Not in my experience. Even on larger lakes there is no USCG presence and the
police patrols carry and use their own radios. It may be different in other
areas, however.. There are now weather broadcasts even for inland areas;
that's kind of nice.

>
>
> Are there any states that overtly recommend what we understand as proper
> gear/training for open water paddlers?
>
> Name the State and their website!
>

I don't know. I'm frankly skeptical that anything will do much good since so
many people seem to think that boating and drinking go together. I'm at the
point where I now just hope they die before they beget offspring. :P


Craig Jungers
Moses Lake, WA
www.nwkayaking.net
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