3 Star Quiz :- Number 4
Equipment
What are the main characteristics of expedition boats?
These are built for speed and stability in rough water, so often have V shaped bottoms. They are long, handle best when fully laden and can feel insecure to novices.
What is a wetsuit made of and designed for?
A wetsuit is usually made of neoprene and is designed to insulate the body during immersion through trapping and heating a layer of water.
Safety
Describe two paddler-friendly international distress signals.
What is the BCU motto regarding numbers in a group?
Less than three there should never be
Hypothermia / First Aid
What is hypothermia?
A
severe cooling of the body resulting in a core temperature below 35oCWhat is the treatment for hypothermia?
If mild
, and casualty fully awake, give carbohydrate-rich snacks and sweetened warm drink.Ensure they are wearing a hat and warm clothing. Monitor closely for signs of recurrence.
Other cases
Wrap casualty as warmly as possible, get ashore and set up windbreak using kayaks.
Get casualty into bivvy bag, remove wet clothing and apply heat source - i.e. paddler.
(Expect visit from Social Services later !)
Keep the head covered, apply warm packs to neck, armpits, sides, chest and groin.
Do not give warm drinks - blood is drawn away from vital organs.
Radio/send for help - casualty must go to hospital since "after-drop" and "secondary drowning" may take place.
Monitor constantly, be ready for EAR/ CPR
Who can give you advice about Access issues for a particular stretch of water?
The Local Access Officer for that area.
Environment
Why is it currently advisable to keep well clear of salmon cages?
To avoid possible ISA contamination.
Who (in Shetland) should sightings of dead seals be reported to?
Scottish Natural Heritage.
Why is it important to consult the Pilot for the area where you are paddling?
Local peculiarities will be shown - tide differences (e.g. only 5hours flooding west ; Magnetic Anomalies, Naval Ranges etc)
What is an "escape route"?
A course to follow should weather, etc, dictate a change of plan.
General
What is 'fetch'?
The distance over which the wind could act in one direction
Why are weather shores dangerous?
The sea doesn't look too bad, since the fetch is limited. Once out from the shore, wave height and wind increases.
Group Awareness
Why is the "buddy" system useful?
In the event of a capsize, it facilitates the raising of an alarm and offers a chance to attempt an Eskimo rescue.
Will the trip leader always maintain position at the front of the group?
No, the trip leader often asks another paddler to lead the way.
Map & Compass
How can a compass help you decide if a ship is on a collision path with you?
If the bearing of the ship stays the same, you are in trouble.
If the bearing changes, it will miss you.
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