I was following this thread with a bit of interest before heading off to do the Upper Petawawa.
Not paddling because you are concerned about the "what ifs" is not very good reason to stay home. It was a beautiful day to be out. A group of 3 is normally the minimum number to be on a river trip. That guideline can be somewhat thrown out when it comes to the Ottawa river because at this time of year there should be other parties on the river including the raft companies that will also help out if sh!t happens.
But don't rely on that ... Read the one of the sticky posts at the top of the forum.
Take a First Aid course, not just for the river outings but for your loved ones and friends.
Have a first aid kit. Not everybody in the group needs to bring one, but there should be one next to your throw rope in your gear bag.
Take a SWRT course or at least read a book.
One should have at least the knowledge on throwing the rope ... as well as what to do if you are the rescuee.
And practice in the known confines of the Ottawa River ... practice towing a boat, or paddling holding 2 paddles, or even towing a person.
New Members Day will most likely provide a few opportunities to practice some rescue techniques... just sit in the eddy below Lower NoName.
And no one will think you are silly if want to practice using a throw rope, the best place is below Butterfly.
I bet we could convince someone to body surf down through the rapids.
Larry
Sooo......
I misunderstood Paul's posting to be a confirmation, but upon talking to him it was only an 'if, then' proposition. I have no reservations about Dave's ability to rescue me, which would be the most likely scenario, but if it comes to having to rescue Dave, I would need to have another paddler as well as myself. Of course the likelihood of this being necessary is small, but for me sh!t always happens. So If someone else confirms, I'm still in. If not, sorry Dave, I'm out.
Kelly
