Since this is not an ideal world, some law is required to protect all of us from those situations in which we are not able to protect ourselves (too many examples to even begin listing). But those regulations/laws that are supposed to protect us from ourselves are almost useless. Common sense can't be legislated. IE seat belts, bicycle helmets, cell phones when driving, PFD & whistle for each person, drinking & driving, drugs, need I go on...? To me, these things are just good sense, law or not. But some others out there think it doen't apply to them.
From your post, you seem like the type of newbie that would be welcome on our trips... willing to learn the proper aspects of water safety.
Our opinions may appear to be different on the surface, but are probably more similar than different. Opinions: evrybody has one and they often are worth what they cost...(nothing).
52 years and no gov'mt training ?!?!? How did you possibly survive so long? Nate, I agree with you 1000%. One of the scariest phrases we can hear is "I'm from the Government and I'm here to help." Common sense and experience pay the best dividends in my book.
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