Safety and Liability
Rick Schoen | Published on 4/25/2024
Rick's thoughts on safety, liability, and Talks with friends and Families
I want to start conversations among club members, smaller paddle groups (the friends with whom we paddle most often) and with our families about these issues. These are my thoughts and sentiments, not that of WKC. I first thought a bit more about these issues after taking a course with the DeReimers many years ago. During that course we talked a bit about safety, and liability etc.. And it started me thinking about this issue.
First let's talk safety; I encourage all to ponder this and talk amongst paddling buddies. I prefer to paddle with at least some folks I know pretty well. I like to know people's skills and weaker areas when paddling; it helps us make decisions. I like for my friends to have taken safety and rescue clinics. We all should bring proper equipment, such as first aid, spare paddles and some rescue gear. And I prefer that we practice rescue skills regularly together. To me this just makes sense, adds to safety, and promotes the lack of coercion, shaming and the like.
Liability: I believe paddling is a solo activity but done with others. We make our own decisions and choices. Running a river or rapid, at this level, at this time, in this stage of my paddling career etc. all are choices we make. We have people we can talk to about these decisions. Use them; they are willing to talk. I believe we need to own these decisions and take responsibility for our own safety through our decisions and practices. I encourage paddlers to talk about this among our friends and family and share our feelings about this. Even with all safety precautions taken, accidents can occur. We all need to understand this. Yes, the safety precautions and a good group can reduce problems but there still can be problems.
So, what do I say to my friends. I say thanks for paddling with me and having safety a high priority. I want you to tell me if you think I'm making a bad decision. I do not want to die on a river or elsewhere anytime soon. Let's always work as a group and speak openly and honestly. Part of the reason I don't want to get into trouble on the river is because I know it would be hard on my friends. I know you will try to rescue me if I'm in trouble but it's important that you not put yourselves at serious risk to add to the problem. I don't want you to feel guilt etc. if the situation turns out poorly. Again, these are my decisions, choices and luck. Yes, luck - part of the equation.
And to the family: I have explained all of the above to them. They know I love paddling, need to do it, and that safety is of the highest priority to me and my paddling buddies. They know I am responsible and no one else. They know that I would not want blame to be put on others even if there are questions about that. They know I don't want anyone sued; club, leaders, others in the group. They know that my friends can help them understand any event in which I am injured or die. And I know my friends would be glad to do that. My family knows these things are important to me.
I encourage all to have these talks; it's a good thing to do.
Hope to see you on the rivers
Rick Schoen