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Some really good points here that cannot be stressed enough. Always carry at least a PFD, pump, paddle leash and I would add VHF radio for the situations you can't get yourself out of. And, you do not have to plan on the worst scenarios, but you should plan for them. Meaning, that you don't need to go out with 6 layers of waterproof clothing on, and a 20 pound first aid kit, etc. but you should have the necessary equipment with you to deal with reasonably different conditions than you expect. Even in bays and lakes, you get morons that don't know how to operate their boats, or worse intentionally try to swamp you. And who has ever met a weather man that has got the wind speed correct, let alone the direction? A sudden 25mph wind can stop many yakkers in their tracks. Too often we get complacent about safety concerns because we have not been reminded of their consequences recently or assume the conditions will remain the same. Posts like yours are what keep many folks from getting into the same or worse situations. Thanks, and get better soon.
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