No point in us remaining
We may as well go home
As I did on my own
Alone again, naturally
- gilbert o’sullivan

A news story out of Oregon makes a point that is always worth talking about. It seems a man was out paddling the other day, was caught in a current and swam. He lost his kayak, but luckily he made it shore. Now the problem came later. It seems his friends were expecting a phone call. The phone however was with still with his kayak.

We’ve talked about this subject many times and it’s a simple mistake to make. If you lose your boat, all the gear in it goes away as well. It’s imperative that you keep at least some basic survival & signaling gear attached to your body. This is why we’re always complaining that PFD manufacturers never make a PFD with enough pockets! Things like a VHF Radio, Cell phone, flairs, tow rope, other signaling devices, compass, knife, snacks, water, important medications, or even a small first aid kit if you can pull it off, should be attached to YOU. What’s more, anything that can be should be attached with a lanyard (if you can attach one safely). Sure I realize that each day on the water may require more or less gear. It’s your call. But keep in mind how quickly things can get out of hand.

For Chris Watson who was the poor chap in the Oregon story he was found the next morning a bit hungry but healthy. In fact his choice to wear a drysuit helped him stay warm overnight until he could be located.

Hey Chris, if you come across this post I’m sure we’d all like to pass along that we’re glad you’re ok!

Related Posts:

1. Casio G’zOne Commando
2. Buy A VHF
3. Strap On
4. Telekayakification
5. Suspended in Gaffa