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Old 06-16-2011, 02:34 PM   #13
Misty Blue
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Join Date: Jul 2004
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Default You got it right!

SKPRBOB, you are dead nutz on in your post about PFD requirements on a kayak. Thanks.

In Massachusetts they have, what I consider, a very good rule. You must wear a PFD when operating a canoe or kayak between Sept. 15th and May 15th. This is to reduce the risk of drowning in cold water. Yea, I said drowning, not hypothermia.

BoatUS foundation did an indepth study of hypothermia with a group of "volunteers" in lake Michigan. They concluded that if you die from hypothermia it is because you WERE wearing your PFD. Here's why.

With your PFD on you should remain floating and can survive for 20 to 30 minutes in 45 deg. water before hypothermia takes you out. Without the PFD your muscles will fail you and you will drown in less than 10 minutes.

It's a good law and a good idea.

Misty Blue.
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