cow tail thingy

[splob]

Yo Guys

Why arnt we using this discusion board anymore ???

Heres a point to talk about ... cow tails ....

I went off these years ago cos I thought they were more of a hinderance than a help - they can get caught on things, they flap around, sticks (attached to tree's) can get stuck through them when you are paddling, I dont want to attach myself to another boat in moving water etc ... I know they are quick release but I still wondered if its a good idea having/using them ... if they did get caught up on something would you have the presence of mind to operate the quick release ?

But since then, and since being in good ole NZ, I have seen Dodge put his to good use on a couple of occasions, including in the surf at Piha with the mattress .....

So, who thinks they are a good idea, and who doesnt and, I guess ultimately ... should I get one on my PFD again ... or are they dodgy ???

UB

[maz]

Hi
I thought I'd add a reply. This is the second time I've looked at this forum. I think the cow tails are a good idea. Certainly beats trying to paddle up-stream with two paddles in your hands. My strap got nibbled by rats in the garage, but that's another story!

[splob]

OK ..... thanks for that

I just worry a little about attaching myself to a boat full of water ....

I am going to try using a sling for rescueing a boat .... next time someone swims (which wont be long), attach the sling to their boat then put it over my shoulder (ie stick my arm through it) and see if I can manoever the boat that way - quick release see !

[Rhys]

I'm all for them as long as you know that the quick release actually works. My first rescue jacket had a cows tail and the quick release didnt work.

I always think you should try it out in a pool before usuing it for a real rescue.

[splob]

good idea dodgy dude ... that I shall do, that I shall do

[Nicki]

Hey Bob

Yes they're a good idea, but as said earlier you need to make sure the quick release works, you need to make sure the cow tail isn't too long, and your quick release flap isn't too long (ie not flapping about like a flappy thing - and do not tuck the excess within your pfd!).

Certainly helps when rescuing paddle, make sure the carabiner you get is big enough for a paddle shaft.

Good also for towing boats, but again you won't wanna be putting yourself in danger going through rapids. If you are trying to rescue someone/something always remember your own safety and if you feel it's not safe to tow then let them go until you're ready.

On our river safety course we did a couple of years ago we played around with ropes, pfds, rescue techniques etc and everyone seemed to feel more comfortable with the options.

[splob]

Dont forget though, quick releases only work under load ... if there is no load on it wont quick release - so if your attached to a boat and you end up swimming you need to 'create' a load to quick release yourself, otherwise you just float along attached to the boat you were trying to resuce (does that make sence)