Re: safety pack

From: John V. Morris (john_v_morris@hp.com-DeleteThis)
Date: Wed Mar 15 2000 - 11:20:37 PST


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Date: Wed, 15 Mar 2000 11:20:37 -0800
From: "John V. Morris" <john_v_morris@hp.com-DeleteThis>
Organization: Hewlett Packard
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Subject: Re: safety pack
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> Just look for tough constuction, drainage, and size. Avoid metal
> components unless it's stainless steel.

Metal zipper sliders are the main culprit. The zippers themselves are
usually nylon, but the sliders are aluminum. Over time, the sliders
corrode and the zipper won't open. Also, you may want to reinforce the
stitching where the strap meets the bag.

> So I Have one tiny fanny pack, one medium fanny pack, and one large
> teardrop shaped, all mesh daypack.
> sometimes I use one, often I don't.

I attach my safety kit permanently to my harness. That way, I *always*
have it with me, even when there is obviously no need. It would be nice
if manufacturers built a small safety pocket into the harnesses.

> commmon contents: line, knife, water, beer, power bar, screwdriver,
> vhf radio, camera

I include a strobe light, tow line, flares, whistle and signal mirror.
Keep it small so you're never tempted to leave it on shore.

VHF radios are nice, especially if you go on long solo sails. Mine lives
in a West Marine waterproof pouch stuffed inside a 1 qt. water bottle
holder (also from West Marine). I fasten the straps around my waist so
the radio fits on my back just above the harness. If I'm wearing a PFD,
the straps fit through PFD loops. I leave the radio on shore in
*obviously* safe situations, but I always carry it if I'm sailing on the
Bay.



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