1 - Lund University
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Rafting essentials kit
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Master thesis from Lund University, Industrial Design/LTH
Author:
Johan Karlsson
Fall 2009
ISRN: LUT-DVIDE/EX-09/50109--SE
Examiner: Claus-Christian Eckhardt, Professor
Supervisor: Andreas Hopf, Designer
Index
1. Introduction 3
1.1 Objective 3
1.2 Relevance 4
1.3 Frames for the project 4
1.4 The way towards the Rafting Essentials kit 4
2. Method 6
2.1 Quantitative method 6
2.2 Method limitations 6
3. Theory 7
4. Analysis 8
4.1 What is essential for a rafter to carry with him-/herself? 8
4.1.1 Equipment hierarchy and the pyramid 8
4.1.2 First level 10
4.1.3 Second level 11
4.1.4 Third level 11
4.1.5 Fourth level 11
4.1.6 Choice of equipment 11
4.2 Scenarios 12
4.2.1 Knife scenario: Getting trapped under water 12
4.2.2 First Aid scenario: A cut to the arm 12
4.2.3 Throw bag: Helping a fellow in need 13
4.2.4 Whistle: Calling the others attention 13
4.2.5 Space blanket: Emergency by accident 14
4.2.6 Worst case scenario 14
4.3 How can already existing products be improved and adjusted in compliance with the need of a rafter? 19
4.3.1 Part specific research 19
The knife 19
First aid kit 32
Throw bag 33
Compass 34
Carabiner 34
Pulleys 34
Lighter 35
Flashlight 35
Water purification 39
Water container 40
Whistle 41
4.4 How can these essentials best be packaged and carried in order to have them available in case of an emergency? 42
4.4.1 Why a bag? 42
4.4.2 How should it be worn? 43
4.4.3 Function Analysis 44
4.4.4 Technology and material properties 44
4.4.5 Bag, Belt and Carabiner Pouch Final Design 50
4.4.6 The parts that makes the whole 53
4.4.7 Finalizing the concept 54
4.5 Renderings of finished products 56
5. Discussion 60
6. Thanks 60
Attachments 62
1. Introduction
In the first chapter of this report the background and objective of this project will be explained. Furthermore the relevance and the purpose of the product will be made clear as well as the frames of the project.
White water rafting; an adventurous sport which attracts a great number of enthusiasts from all over the world.
Among those enthusiast, although without conducting the sport often enough, I count myself. When traveling in the wild whitewater one should remember that part of the adrenalin kick is the knowledge that falling in to the wild water can become a struggle for your life.
Peru: Israeli killed in rafting accident
20 year-old Israeli woman killed while rafting on Apurimac River; other hikers unharmed
A 20 years-old Israeli hiker was killed in Peru on the night between Thursday and Friday in a rafting accident on the Apurimac River, the Foreign Ministry reported. The young woman's family was notified of her death.
Roee Nahmias, 03.17.06, 12:44/Israel News
1.1 Objective
Because of the high risks it involves it is vital to bring what would be necessary in case of an emergency.
The objective of this exam work is to create a rafting essential kit which includes the essentials for survival and furthermore solves the problem of not having these essentials available when an accident does occur. Due to the nature of the sport the kit needs to be designed in a non obtrusive matter.
In order to achieve the objective of this exam work I will solve the following tasks, all while creating a product which will not only be useful but also safe and durable:
➢ What is essential for a rafter to carry with him-/herself?
➢ How can already existing products be improved and adjusted in compliance with the need of a rafter?
➢ How can these essentials best be carried in order to have
them available in case of an emergency?
1.2 Relevance
Before deciding on creating this product I started with the hypothesis that there is a lack of a packaged solution for safety and survival for the whitewater rafter, based on my own experience.
To prove my hypothesis and the relevance and demand for such a product, I conducted some market research; in order to get a product that has a place on the market. The market research strengthened my hypothesis and also revealed that there is a demand for a product which will carry all of the essentials for survival while and at the same time being non obtrusive.
1.3 Frames for the project
The starting point of my project is the target group; rafters and their needs will set the frames for the product.
The rafters setting the frames for this product are more experienced rafters who do longer, remoter and tougher rafting trips, bringing their own gear. The product could also be appropriate for guides, who have a larger responsibility for safety than the average attendee on a tourist trip.
1.4 The way towards the Rafting Essentials kit
Before reaching my hypothesis it was not clear that this project would be a Rafting Essentials kit and the project took a couple of turns until it settled. The project started with that I wanted to make an outdoors related product. Here are the steps of the process towards my hypothesis:
Chart 1:
2. Method
This chapter describes the method of collecting the research material. Furthermore the limitations of the method are explained.
2.1 Quantitative method
In this project I have used surveys as a tool to assess the needs of the target group. To collect additional information I have used internet websites and discussions on online forums. This method complies with the quantitative research method. The quantitative research is a useful method when wanting to collect enough fact/ opinions to generalize.
For the design process I will also use different methods to generate ideas, such as spider charts, brainstorming, and sketching etcetera.
2.2 Method limitations
When I have searched for people for my surveys I have mostly targeted quite specific groups, hikers and rafters/kayakers. This is a strength in many ways, because they know the subject very well and can give credible feedback; as they are the target group and their opinions are the most important ones. On the other hand by doing this I exclude other people, people who could give a new perspective on things or people being interested in other sports and perhaps could give valuable general tips.
3. Theory
In this chapter I will show the importance on having a clear target group when launching a specialized product.
It is highly important to investigate whether there is a demand for a product before creating it. This firstly means defining the target group that one wish to aim for. Secondly one can use market research to investigate how the target group views the potential product. In other words it is not only vital to know which your target group is but also what their decisions are based upon (Grönroos, 2002:345). I believe that when creating a product concept a good starting point is to let the target group set the frames for the product as it is they who would be the potential buyers.
According to the classic segmentations of a target group it is mainly based upon demographical, geographical and behavioural aspects. (Kotler, 2003:265ff)
Often a product is created due to a demand already existing on the market. In this project my hypothesis was that there is a demand for an essential kit for rafters and after conducting a market research my hypothesis was strengthened. Furthermore I am aware that the target group I have chosen is not a very large one and that the product therefore has a limited market.
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4. Analysis
In this chapter the purpose of creating a “Rafting essential kit” will be achieved and demonstrated. This will be done by solving the following three tasks/questions: 1. What is essential for a rafter to carry with him-/herself, 2. How can already existing products be improved and adjusted in compliance with the need of a rafter? 3. How can these essentials best be carried in order to have them available in case of an emergency?
4.1 What is essential for a rafter to carry with him-/herself?
The first task of this project was to pinpoint the most important products that a rafter would need and find useful in case of an emergency. The chart below illustrates a stripped down mind map over rafting and some of the gear that you may come in contact with. This Mind map is based on my observations, on web pages and by my rafting experiences.
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4.1.1 Equipment hierarchy and the pyramid
When analyzing the answers of my marketing research I found that there are a great number of products that a rafter wishes to bring when traveling in the wild water. I was also able to strengthen my hypothesis that the best way to carry this equipment is in some kind of bag.
In order to decide what to include in the product I had to make some way of setting up the priority. This was mainly done by reading the answers from my surveys and thinking what realistically could fit in a bag and which would not compromise the safety and mobility of the user.
Should be easy to carry and should be light weight
Comment from questionnaire
I also made a table to explore different products versatility compared to each other. I made this to explore the possibilities of different objects and maybe come up with alternative uses I had missed at a first glance.
Chart 3:
(Y=yes, N=no, H=high, M=medium, L=low)
It is clear that if I am going to make a bag I will not fit everything in it. Therefore I have constructed a pyramid diagram over the contents of the bag and my interpretation of the data I collected (see attachment 3) in the market research. In the top I have put what I definitely will have in the bag, and then I have put other things in the pyramid, with decreasing priority. As the pyramids width grows towards the bottom, so does the volume of the bag (because of that the number of items in the bag increases).
Chart 4:
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Starting from the top of the pyramid:
4.1.2 First level
• The Knife is a key component when choosing gear and one of the absolute essentials for the professional rafter. It can be used to cut oneself loose if trapped. But it can also be used as a tool for a countless number of tasks during a trip.
• The “First aid kit” is of high importance when accidents occur. Even a simple kit can be of great importance, for example; being able to quickly apply a pressure bandage to a wound.
4.1.3 Second level
• A throw bag is a bag with an attached rope that you throw to people in distress while holding on to the other end yourself. This way you will be able to pull in the person in distress.
• Lighter and Fire steels are used for lighting fires. Being able to make fire is a cornerstone in survival as it helps you keep warm and dry. The ability to light fire is also when lighting stoves and campfires, as well as finishing of rope ends.
• A compass, along with a map and knowledge is what you need to navigate yourself. You want to avoid sensitive electronics that can break or malfunction in a survival kit.
• Carabiners are used on a raft to attach things such as loose equipment in the boat or when climbing etcetera.
4.1.4 Third level
• Water is vital for staying hydrated and in a survival situation water is truly one of the bottlenecks of survival, therefore being able to carry water in a container is very important.
• A space blanket can be used as an emergency shelter, sleeping bag and to help victims of hypothermia to keep their warmth.
• Pulleys are used for hoisting operations, sometimes you have to pull the raft over obstacles or hoist injured people that cannot climb themselves.
• A flashlight enables you to work in the dark as well as signaling for help.
• A whistle is a classic method for delivering an emergency signal, but it is also used in rafting for attracting attention of other rafts and rafters more effortless than shouting.
• Means of purifying water is of course important since the quality of the drinking water needs to be of a certain level to keep you from getting ill.
4.1.5 Fourth level
• Hypothermia is very dangerous and wet clothes gets you cold fast, therefore a set of dry clothes could be of good use.
• Emergency food or snack to carry on you if separated from your larger pack.
• Solar cells, to charge cell phones, GPS
• And more…
4.1.6 Choice of equipment
Based on my research and the above charts my choice of equipment is:
1. Knife
2. First aid
3. Throw bag
4. whistle
5. Space blanket
6. Lighter
7. Compass
8. Carabiner
9. Flashlight
10. Water container and purification
11. Pulleys
The following scenarios will demonstrate the importance of the chosen products.
4.2 Scenarios
The following scenarios will demonstrate the importance of the chosen products and gives examples of how they are used.
4.2.1 Knife scenario: Getting trapped under water
Bill the rafter is traveling down some rapids with his cataraft. Around him, in the cataraft, gear is strapped down. In the rapids he hit a big wave, the wave flips the cataraft. In the turmoil, Bill’s foot gets trapped under a strap and he is caught under the raft. To free himself he reaches for his rafting knife and cuts himself loose. He manages to climb up on the cataraft and is safe.
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4.2.2 First Aid scenario: A cut to the arm
Bill the rafter is climbing some rocks while he is scouting the rapids downstream. He suddenly slips, falls backwards and come crashing down between some rocks. Shielding his face from the fall, he cuts his arm. The cut hurts and he starts to bleed. He opens the bag and pulls out the first aid bandage and starts to put on a pressure bandage. The bloods stops and he starts walking back to the other members of the expedition who are waiting by their rafts.
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4.2.3 Throw bag: Helping a fellow in need
Bill is out rafting with his friends, the party is in two different rafts. Splashing down the rapids Bills friends in the other raft, flips their raft. When the raft flips, one of the rafters get separated from his raft and is now floating away in the rough waters.
Bill and his friend Michael, gets ready to throw their throw bags. They throw one on the raft and the people that are clinging on to the raft and one on the rafter who is struggling in the water.
They make two good throws and soon they have pulled their friends in.
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4.2.4 Whistle: Calling the others attention
Bill and Michael are going down some grade four rapids when a wave pulls Michael of the raft. In the turmoil Bill struggles to locate Michael in order to help him get back on the raft. Michael who is holding on to the back of the raft is trying to reach up high enough to be visible for Bill. Without any luck he reaches for his whistle and gets Bill attention, which pulls him into the raft and to safety.
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4.2.5 Space blanket: Emergency by accident
Bill is doing an easy raft with his friend Michael along an Alaskan river.
Then, by the riverside he spots someone lying there, they paddle towards the beach. As he jumps out he sees that it is a young man. The young man is dressed in a hiking jacket and cargo pants but is soaking wet and he is shaking heavily. The man feels cold and his face has a bluish tone. They try to talk to him, but get no answers. They understand that he has hypothermia.
Bill helps the man in some dry clothes and put him in the space blanket. Luckily the cell phone has coverage and Bill calls 911 and half an hour later a rescue chopper comes hovering in to aid.
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4.2.6 Worst case scenario
Bill the rafter and his friend Michael are doing a rafting trip; a weekend excursion that they have done once before.
An unsuspected rainfall further up the river sends a wave down the canyon, towards Bill and Michael. As the wave hits Bill and Michael in the rapids their raft is destroyed by a sharp log, sticking up from the bottom of the river and their gear is swept away.
They manage to get ashore, but wet, cold and without any gear except their Rafting Essentials kit. As they are trapped in the canyon they are forced to walk down stream, to get out. But they are far from any road and the landing spot, where they were going, is two days away downstream. They check their cell phones, no signal. They soon realize that they need to get warm, their clothes are wet and the sun is going down. They start to collect wood and arrange a camp site.
Using the Essentials kit they light a fire and they soon start to warm up. To not dehydrate they have to get water, but have not seen any other water source except the river they travel on. So they go down to the stream and fill their water containers. Because they are unsure of the water quality they purify the water. Using their rafting knives they manage to make a bed and shelter of leafed branches and their emergency blankets. Soon the night comes over them. The last minutes they work in the dark using their flashlight, preparing their space blankets to help them keep warm.
When morning comes and no other rafts can be seen, they decide to walk towards a nearby town.
They climb upwards, out of the river canyon; when they reach the top Bill and Michael reach a pine forest. By using the compass from the Rafting Essentials kit with their map, they navigate towards the town.
While they are walking Bill slips and sprains his ankle. He gets up and tries to put some weight on the foot; it hurts but is ok to walk on. By using the bandage/dressing first aid, Bill wraps his foot to get it more stable and they head of again.
Finally after two hours walk they arrive at the small town of Kimberley and they are safe.
Worst case scenario illustrated
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4.3 How can already existing products be improved and adjusted in compliance with the need of a rafter?
4.3.1 Part specific research
The knife
And speaking of getting tangled, along with having a rescue bag, it is essential that you also have a sharp knife
NSR Web
Basics of my rescue knife
My knife will be designed to be a versatile tool, but I am focusing on two ways of using the knife. This is to make a knife that will perform its intended tasks well, instead of making a knife that can do a hundred different tasks with poor results.
Main uses:
1. Rescue knife
2. All-round knife, for daily usage in camp and woods
Function analysis
Function Need Class
Be Sharp BF
Be Sturdy N
Have Non corrosive blade N
Be attachable N
Be Non slippery N
Have Blunt tip N
Ease Sheathing D
Ease Finding D
(Class; BF= Basic Function, N=Necessary, D=Desirable)
Market research - knives
There are many companies that offer rescue knives; these are some of the knives available:
• Gerber River mate
• NRS Pilot knife
• Bench made River Rescue
• Kershaw Sea Hunter Blunt Tip
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Gerber River mate NRS Pilot Knife
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Benchmade River Rescue Kershaw Sea Hunter blunt tip
Blade and handle
As can be seen on both the Gerber and the Benchmade knives above, many rescue or divers knives have serrated blades, which are very sharp and usable for cutting straps or ropes. However these blades, if used for other tasks like cutting branches repeatedly, soon lose their edge. I want to have a blade that can be used as well as for food preparation, cutting branches and cutting oneself loose from ropes, when necessary. The Kershaw’s blade have one serrated edge and one more normal, however it looks like the curve of the blade is a bit to straight to give it good carving characteristics. One important aspect of the blade shape is also the blunt tip, as seen on the knives above, this is to avoid puncturing of the raft or by mistake, piercing a person while performing a rescue.
The handle should fit well into the hand, the handles of the Gerber, NRS and Benchmade knives look as if they are more made to look cool, rather than fitting a person’s hand. From my own experience it is very easy to make the handle to small, thin or short, which makes the knife tiresome or uncomfortable to use.
To make a handle that would be suitable for my knife I modeled several different versions in clay to assess different shapes.
Knife Handle sketch models
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I started out with being inspired by existing knife handles, to find the right proportions. Then I went on with trying to find a shape which felt natural to grip. Trying different shapes I settled with four final shapes:
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Grip 1 Scuba
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Grip 2 Mora
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Grip 3 Machete
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Grip 4 Simple
• Grip 1 Scuba, is a grip which is inspired from one of my own earlier idea sketches for a rescue knife. The idea behind the design was that the knife would have a mirrored shape, so the knife could always be easily inserted in the sheath. But the shape of the handle proved to be uncomfortable because of the double handle guards and I skipped this shape.
• Grip 2 Mora, was very much inspired by classical shape of an all-round knife, like a classic Swedish Mora knife. The Mora grip is comfortable to use in everyday use and easy to “maneuver”. The Shape however only admits the user to grip it from one side; in case of an emergency it can be good to being able to grip a rescue knife from both sides so it will instantly be ready to cut yourself free, without fumbling to get the right grip.
• Grip 3 Machete, using pretty much the same grip contour as the Mora grip, but as I tried to make it more comfortable to hold I made it broader. This resulted in a grip that feels very nice to hold, but the handle would probably fit a machete better than a rescue knife, as you get a very sturdy grip which suits when chopping things with your knife. But because I want a flexible knife that will do other things than chopping, this design does not seem optimal.
• Grip 4 Simple, as a result of the other test grips I came up with this final shape. It has a quite long grip; its contour is simple without any intricate shapes for fingers etc, It also fits both larger and smaller hands, or if you are wearing gloves. This makes the knife comfortable to grab and hold both in the right way and backwards, the guard on the handle tells the user which way the main blade is pointing. This is the handle/grip I will use for my knife.
Wearing the knife
The standard for a rescue knife/rafting knife is to have a clip, which makes it possible to attach the knife either to a belt or a lash tab, on the person’s personal floating device. I will also use this standard, to have the knife compatible with existing personal floating devices.
Sketching my knife
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Final Design
The knife has a stainless Steel blade, with serrated backside of the blade. The handle has the shape of the “simple grip” I described in earlier chapter; the ABS handle has a grained slip surface to prevent it from slipping. In the handle there is also a metal part with recessed grove for the release mechanism of the sheath.
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[More sketches can be found in attachment 6.]
First aid kit
Bandage and dressing
First aid kits differ a lot from kit to kit and my intention is not to try to make a kit that can do everything. That would be too heavy to carry around; instead I will be using a product that functions like the product called the 4-in1 blood stopper from Cederroth. As the same suggests it as four uses; pressure bandage for use on heavy bleeding, cover bandage for shallow wounds, bandaging of burn wounds and as temporary support bandage.
Several armies have this product as standard equipment of every soldier, including among others the Swedish, Danish and US army.
By always having this combined dressing and bandage you will always have a basic method of bandaging wounds, saving valuable time when an accident happen. This product is also very space and weight efficient being as small as 110x50x20 mm in size, packaged in a airtight plastic bag that protects the bandage from dirt and water.
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Cederoth 4-in-1 Illustration of US Army first aid kit
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Space blanket
Included in the bags, basic, first aid kit a “space blanket” is appropriate. It is a plastic bag that is laminated with a special aluminum foil that reflects 80% of the heat radiation from your body to help you keep warm and to prevent hypothermia. The blanket is not only good to have in case of hypothermia, but works well in a survival emergency situation as a temporary sleeping bag or rain shelter. They are lightweight and small, perfect to have close in hand.
Throw bag
“The Rescue/Throw Bag is a vital piece of safety equipment, used to rescue a swimmer, and in some cases to help unpin a boat. There should be a minimum of one per boat on any trip. Bags come in various shapes and sizes, but fall into two main categories; bags worn on the boater’s waist and bulkier ones carried in the boat.
The bags are made of nylon or other synthetic material and contain some closed cell foam to keep the empty bag afloat… … Rope used in the bags is at least partially made of polypropylene, because it floats. The bright color of bags and rope make them easily visible to both the swimmer and the rescuer… … NEVER tie your end of the rope to yourself or any object; always be prepared to release the rope if need be...
NRSweb
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NRS Guardian waist throw bag
Successful deployment of the throw bag is dependent of:
• If it is easy to use and handle
• If it is easily spotted by and caught by the person in need
• Proper handling by the thrower
Therefore the design of the throw bag should address these points by being intuitive to use, have a color that attracts attention, rope and bag should float and the person having the bag being trained using it.
Because I want to include a throw bag in my kit, my idea is to use the belt for the commonly used waist throw bag with the other parts of the kit.
Compass
I want a classic compass, like the Silva Ranger 3, to be included in the bag, a stripped down, simple and tested type of compass. Furthermore the compass is a product that is very much formed of its use and therefore little needs to be done design wise with it.
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Silva Ranger 3
Carabiner
Rafters use different carabiners made for climbing, to attach and secure gear and other things. For my Essentials Kit I will include two high grade carabiners, like the Omega Pacific Standard locking carabiner for example.
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Omega Pacific standard locking
Pulleys
Used in hoisting operations, to give you a 3-1 advantage, or when you have to pull out a raft that has gotten stuck between rocks. To fit it in the essentials kit they have to be compact and lightweight, one good choice seems to be SMC CR 1" pulley. Weighing only 63g each and being 73x43x33 mm, it is one of the smallest pulleys available.
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SMC CR 1”
Lighter
There are several techniques for making fire or starting a fire, but most commonly used today is probably the disposable butane lighter. Others are; matches, windproof jet lighters and Fire steel.
The disposable butane lighter is probably popular because of that they are cheap and easy to acquire, they are also relatively non sensitive to moist and water. Even if the butane lighter with a spark wheel would get wet, you easily get it working within a couple of minutes.
An alternative is the Swedish Fire steel, developed by the Swedish department of defense, which is made of a metal alloy that you scrape on a piece of steel. This creates sparks that are 3000°C hot and will ignite paper, small pieces of wood or other tinder. The Fire steel is considered by survival experts the most reliable method to start fire with and is the type of fire starter method I am going to include in my kit.
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Swedish Firesteel
Flashlight
Because the human eye works badly in low light conditions a flashlight is essential when you are in the outdoors. Most popular are flashlights that use LED lamps, they are more energy efficient than light bulbs and because they require less power they can be made smaller.
Except for providing working light in the dark, light can work as a way to signal for help in the dark hours.
The flashlight should have the following properties:
• Led lamps, to save power
• Water tight
• Lightweight
Sketches
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Final Design
The flash light is quite small, so it doesn’t take up to much space in the Essentials kit; it fits one AA battery, is water tight and has a LED as light source. It is switched on by twisting the grooved metal part. On the back end there is a hole to attach the flash light to a key ring or a string.
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Water purification
One of the bottlenecks you have to manage, if you are to survive and stay healthy in the outdoors, is the ability to provide yourself with enough drinking water. In the extreme case dehydration leads to your death long before you starve to death of not eating, in the less extreme case dehydration leads to decreased physical and mental performance. But not only do you have to get water, in many cases you will need to purify it from bacteria and protozoan to stay healthy. Bacteria are everywhere and it can be hard to know if the water is safe to drink. Generally it is safer to drink the water the closer you are to the source, it is less likely to be polluted if you move up-stream and moving water is preferred to still water.
Examples of protozoan that could be in bad water are Giardia Lamblia and Cryptosporidium, both which causes diarrhea for example. In less developed countries you can find bacteria causing Cholera, Salmonella and Typhoid.
Portable methods of Water purification
• Boiling
• Chemical disinfection
• Filters
• Ultraviolet Purification
• SODIS
• Solar still
• MIOX method
Choosing a purification method
I want to have a purification method in my kit to be able to purify water without the need to start a fire. My choice is intended to work as a backup, for emergency use and I have chosen not to include a method that will use electricity (because electronics tend to break) or filter (because they use a lot of space). Therefore I am not including a mini hand pumped filter, that would be relatively small for a filter, or the very compact MSR Miox Pen, that requires batteries, instead I rely water purifying tablets. This is because I regard the water purifying capacities in the rafting essentials kit to be used as a back-up rather the main method of purifying water (although it would be possible to rely fully on tablets on a trip). With a package of 25 pills of Micropur Forte you can purify 25 litres of water and the weight is only 25 grams, Micropur Forte uses Silver ion and chlorine to purify the water. Their effectiveness is great and compared to standard chlorine or iodine tablets the smell and taste of purified water is better with Micropur Forte. By using a transparent water container, I can also make use of the Sodis method, by letting the suns UV radiation help to purify the water.
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Micropur Forte
Water container
The most space and weight efficient way of carrying water is probably in pouches like the Platypus or Camelbacks, either to have the pouch integrated in the bag or to roll it up for emergency use. The bag would probably be quite small (to fit in the Essentials kit), for personal use and would probably contain 1 liter of water, the amount of water one Micropur Forte tablet purifies.
By making the container of transparent plastic, you can use the Sodis method of purifying water, using the ultra violet radiation in sun light to purify water.
The water container should also to be compatible to use with the system you use for water purification. Because I have chosen to use Micropur Forte tablets, compatibility should not be a problem. The bag also has a simple, removable, filter for larger water particles that can be found in water sources.
Final Design
The water container has capacity for 1 litre of water; it is flat and can be rolled or folded to be very small. In the corners of the bag there are holes cut out so that you can attach the bag onto your belt, backpack or hang it. To fill it up you remove the top cap and submerge it in water or let water pour into it.
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Whistle
An essential safety device, used to call people’s attention. Whistles that are available are of very high standard and functionality; therefore I see no further need to develop this item further and I am therefore using an existing whistle, like the Fox 40 emergency whistle.
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Fox 40
4.4 How can these essentials best be packaged and carried in order to have them available in case of an emergency?
Need to be almost flat and fit on you where it would not make you feel heavy, or get in your way”
Comment in questionnaire by pro
Pockets and knives on the front of pfd's and waist throw bags that are an impediment to climbing back into or on a flipped raft. As a guide I need to get back in or on the boat fast after it has flipped or I've been thrown out. Snagging on all this stuff getting in the boat makes it much more difficult to get in the boat. When guiding a solo boat trip, this is critical.
Comment in questionnaire by guide
Should probably be attached to you somehow as an emergency probably wouldn't allow you to collect gear...
Comment in questionnaire by rafter
In order to be included on a rafting trip this equipment need to be worn in a non obtrusive manner. It would be better located in a survival vest such as the AIR-FORCE or NAVY uses.
Comment in questionnaire by rafter
4.4.1 Why a bag?
Finding the appropriate way to package the essentials is of great importance and I had several different ideas how it could be solved. Soon it was clear that some of these where less good than the others.
The primary way of carrying items at the moment is to put them in your Personal Floating Device, but as the survey showed people feel that putting too much in your pockets in front of you Personal Floating Device obstructs your movement.
Another idea could be to integrate a carrying system in a wetsuit, but by doing this would limit the Essentials kit to when you wear the wetsuit and tied to the wetsuit.
So therefore I think a bag solution would be the most appropriate for my product.
I make one (essentials bag) up for each trip I go on. It is about what you had listed.
Comment in questionnaire by pro
4.4.2 How should it be worn?
By sketching and studying the surveys I made some different concepts of how the essentials kit could be worn, that was applicable on rafters and rafting.
[pic]
The Belt bag
The leg-holster type bag was, something that I considered in an early sketching phase but as I understood from the surveys and reading more about the subject of rafting safety, strapping things in this way to your body is not an option, the less straps that are attached to you; the better. Making a special life vest was never an option, limiting the Essentials Kit to one model of life vest never seemed like a good idea because of peoples different shapes and sizes, also different types of vests are used for different occasions/places.
Of these different wearing concepts it is the Belt bag concept that I will go further into developing. By designing the kit to being worn around the waist in a belt I get several benefits:
• I can incorporate a throwbag in the belt, which is typically already worn around the waist as a belt. In in this way the throwbag becomes a natural part of the kit-
• The simplicity of the belt design makes it easy to use and understandable how to wear it, even though you never even seen the kit before.
4.4.3 Function Analysis
The most important property of a bag is of course to hold its contents. The bag should be specially adopted to hold this very specific content that this bag will contain. In this function analysis I list the functions of the bag.
Function Need Class
Hold essentials BF
Resist water N
Be safe (to use) N
Be durable N
Withstand UV radiation D
Be Intuitive D
(Class; BF= Basic Function, N=Necessary, D=Desirable)
4.4.4 Technology and material properties
Because the bag will need to be able to keep water and dirt out it has to be constructed in certain ways.
Technology
The most commonly used technique for making a water proof bag for outdoors use is to make it like a dry sack, polyurethane coated canvas and radio frequency welding of seams. To seal the bag, roll the end of the bag inwards 3 times. These kind of dry sacks have been produced by many companies since the 1980’s, although cheaper dry sacks usually have been coated with PVC.
[pic]
Simple dry sack
These dry bags, which you simply roll up, have the tendency to sometimes let water in and especially if fully submerged. This negative side to the simple fold and roll technique has different solutions, but probably the best technology use to secure a watertight opening is the ZipDry® lock. Reminding of a freezer bag lock, it is quite effectively keeping water out when submerged.
Using something like Zipdry to lock the bag seems like the best technology to use on the bag opening and therefore will I be using it on my design.
[pic]
Opening procedure of a ZipDry drybag
Materials
Choosing the right materials for the bag is essential for its performance; the environment it is going to be used in is very demanding. Abrasive resistance, water resistance and UV resistance, is essential.
As mentioned in the technology section, the best is to have the fabric coating in a form of stable polyurethane.
“… 4 times the abrasion resistance of PVC and flexibility at all temperatures.”
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The fabric which the coating is applied to is also important for the overall properties of the bags shell. The fabric should be tear, puncture, UV and abrasive resistant. For mechanical stress a Nylon 6-6 fabric seems the best choice, also the improved resistance to UV radiation compared to older nylon and the UV protection that the coating offers, will give the fabric a good UV resistance.
Straps and buckles will also be made of nylon
Sketches
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4.4.5 Bag, Belt and Carabiner Pouch Final Design
In the end I settled for a carrying solution consisting of four parts:
1. The essentials bag
The essentials bag is a watertight bag worn in the belt, to which it is attached with loops that are glued to the bag. The bag contains all the small parts of the kit.
Through sketching and model making I came up with the idea of having an angled opening to the bag. This makes it easier to reach the contents of the bag when wearing it on the side of your hip, comparing to it being worn either horizontal or vertical. The angled opening also prevents gear from easily falling out of the bag when it is open, something that might be disastrous when you are out on water.
The corners of the bag has extra reinforcement to prevent the bag from breaking.
2. The Throwbag
The throwbag is attached to the belt as the same way the essentials bag is. The actual throwbag that you toss in an emergency situation is inside an outer protective bag, to open the bag you just pull the Velcro open and pull out the throwbag. The protective bag is still attached to the belt, but the throwbag is not attached to you anymore (as safety regulations stress, not to get dragged in yourself while performing a rescue).
3. The carabiner pouches
Because the carabiners should be carried or kept close at hand I thought it was a good idea not to have them inside the essentials bag. They are also insensitive to water, so they would just waste space inside the bag. Therefore I designed a special pouch for carabiners, to be carried in the belt.
The carabiner pouches are made of neoprene, which is flexible, to being able to fit carabiners of different sizes and shapes. It is also safer to carry the carabiners in the pouches, rather than just clipping them on to your life vest et cetera, because having the carabiners exposed increases the risk of entanglement. The carabiner pouch has a lid that is closed with Velcro to secure the carabiner in the pouch.
4. The belt
The belt is made of nylon, with an aluminum buckle that has a safety release strap. The belt carries; the essential bag, throwbag and carabiner pouches.
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4.4.6 The parts that makes the whole
In the end the kit consists of these parts:
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1. Carabiner Pouch
2. Carabiners
3. Knife and sheath
4. Throwbag
5. Belt and Essentials bag
6. Pulleys
7. Firesteel
8. Compass
9. Flashlight
10. Bandage
11. Micropur Forte tablets
12. Emergency blanket
13. Watercontainer
4.4.7 Finalizing the concept
To bring the parts together I decided to give the Rafting Essentials kit a logotype and a color scheme for the products.
Logotype
Looking on logotypes on the market, I decided to go in a direction towards a style resembling to sports brands as; The North Face, Salomon and O’Neill.
The result is a symbol, a rune inspired R and E incorporated in each other. The RE symbol can be used on its own or with the stylized RAFTING ESSENTIALS text attach to it.
[pic] [pic]
Product Color Scheme
To find inspiration for colors for my products I scanned outdoors related products, for inspiration:
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From these products I extracted some colors that I liked:
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Furthermore I decided to choose three colors from above colors to work with in a three color scheme for my product:
[pic] (From left; Cyan, 70% black and orange)
Products with colors:
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4.5 Renderings of finished products
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5. Discussion
In this chapter I will discuss the outcome of the project.
I started this project with the objective to “create a rafting essentials kit which includes the essentials for survival and furthermore solves the problem of not having these essentials available when an accident does occur”. By having an objective I was able to conduct research that gave me the information I was looking for. The difficulty was in the deciding what products/essentials that are the most vital when an accident occur. Due to the nature of the sport I also had to make sure that the design of the “kit” would not be intrusive for the rafter. In my research it became clear that rafters where interested in my product as it was easy to get feedback in forums.
The project made it clear how important a clear target group is to be able to make an attractive product for them. Not only aesthetically, but what functions and characteristics the product should possess.
Accidents happens when you least expect them and I strived to make a product that would be easy to carry and use, so you will carry it when you need it; not packed down with the rest of your gear in the bottom of a bag. I also wanted people to be able to adjust their kit to their personal needs and therefore made the kit so you can remove or add to the Essentials kit.
6. Thanks
To everyone who has helped me throughout the school years, teachers and friends, thank you and happy rafting.
Sources
Written sources
Grönroos C (2002). Service Management och Marknadsföring – En CRM ansats. Liber Ekonomi Malmö
Kotler P (2003). Marketing for hospitality and tourism, third edition. Pearson Education. Upper Saddle River New Jersey
Electronically sources/Forum sights where surveys were posted
forums/
forum/raftzone/
forum/
forum/
forums.
Israel News, articles/0,7340,L-3228954,00.html
op_rescue_alummodd.htm
Attachments
Attachment 1: Survey 1
Attachment 2: Survey 2
Attachment 3: Survey 3
Attachment 4: Initial spider charts
Attachment 5: Water purification research
Attachment 6: Knife sketches
Attachment 7: Design Inspiration & Color Inspiration - Moodboards
Attachment 1 - Survey 1 (163 completed surveys)
1. Gender
Male 90.8% 148
Female 9.2% 15
answered question 163
skipped question 0
2. Age
-16 0.6% 1
17-23 9.8% 16
24-30 14.7% 24
31-37 21.5% 35
38-44 17.8% 29
45-51 20.9% 34
52-58 9.2% 15
59- 5.5% 9
Answered question 163
Skipped question 0
3. Do you usually bring a map when going out in the outdoors in new places?
Yes 93.3% 152
No 1.8% 3
Not always 4.9% 8
If Not always why not? 8
1. always bring a map, even for well known places Thu, 3/27/08 9:13 PM
2. I follow the river Thu, 3/27/08 10:32 AM
3. always when backpacking, not always on a day hike Wed, 3/26/08 6:14 PM
4. Depends on how difficult it will be to find my way around Wed, 3/26/08 5:19 PM
5. When acting on impulse :) Wed, 3/26/08 11:44 AM
6. hiking a marked trail Wed, 3/26/08 6:17 AM
7. Depends how far in the backcountry I am Wed, 3/26/08 4:21 AM
8. Unsure where we will be dropped off. Tue, 3/25/08 5:31 PM
answered question 163
skipped question 0
4. Do you own a hand held GPS?
Yes 62.6% 102
No 37.4% 61
Answered question 163
Skipped question 0
5. When do you bring your GPS out to the nature?
Always, whether I think I will need it or not 31.1% 50
When I need it 23.6% 38
Pretty much always when I go to an unfamiliar place 8.1% 13
Don't own a GPS 37.3% 60
Comments 15
1. Used primarily to record route track Sat, 3/29/08 11:07 PM
2. Use it for teaching micro-navigation to clients and also as backup (in my pack) whilst guiding with clients during winter. Prefer to use my map and compass Sat, 3/29/08 6:52 PM
3. Used for recording distance and ascent, not nav. Fri, 3/28/08 4:32 PM
4. I own a GPS for the car. Outdoors: compass, map, and brain never run out of power, more durable than electronics, plus I don't need to know exactly where I am when I am on a trail, +/- 500 meters is fine Thu, 3/27/08 9:13 PM
5. Once in ten years Thu, 3/27/08 5:25 PM
6. Its usually turned off in my bag if I don't need it Thu, 3/27/08 2:13 PM
7. Geko 201 used to confirm height and position when necessary Thu, 3/27/08 1:20 PM
8. It's in the boat Thu, 3/27/08 10:32 AM
9. Use it to log my route if not used for navigation Thu, 3/27/08 7:55 AM
10. Rarely bring it - I walk to escape machinery! Wed, 3/26/08 8:02 PM
11. used for logging routes only Wed, 3/26/08 7:15 PM
12. Never take it any more Wed, 3/26/08 3:34 PM
13. Gps are the work of the devil :) Wed, 3/26/08 12:30 PM
14. ski touring it's good, traditional nav is harder on skis Wed, 3/26/08 11:22 AM
15. I have used one in the middle of the Canadian wilderness where getting lost meant death. Tue, 3/25/08 6:15 PM
Answered question 161
Skipped question 2
6. Do you bring/use a watch when hiking?
Yes 86.5% 141
No 13.5% 22
Answered question 163
Skipped question 0
7. Do you bring/use a mobile phone when backpacking?
Yes 82.7% 134
No 17.3% 28
Answered question 162
Skipped question 1
8. Do you have some sort of ABC device? (Altitude, Barometer, Compass)
Yes 62.6% 102
No 35.0% 57
Planning to buy one 2.5% 4
Other (please specify) 9
Answered question 163
Skipped question 0
9. Have you ever run out off batteries in your; GPS, Camera,mobile phone... where there was no grid electricity?
Yes 44.4% 72
No 55.6% 90
Answered question 162
Skipped question 1
10. What portable ways do you got to charge batteries?
None 82.7% 134
Solar panel(s) 5.6% 9
Other (please specify) 11.7% 19
1. car charger Tue, 4/1/08 9:55 AM
2. car charger Tue, 4/1/08 3:40 AM
3. clock-work wind up charger for my mobile phone battery. Sat, 3/29/08 6:15 PM
4. rely on good old navigation Thu, 3/27/08 11:33 PM
5. power inverter in car: 12vDC in 110vAC 60 Hz out Thu, 3/27/08 9:13 PM
6. generator Thu, 3/27/08 10:32 AM
7. Hand wound phone charger. Wed, 3/26/08 7:21 PM
8. Mini battery backup charger Wed, 3/26/08 7:08 PM
9. Spare battery pack Wed, 3/26/08 5:34 PM
10. solar panel, wind up charger Wed, 3/26/08 4:33 PM
11. MAINS CHARGERS Wed, 3/26/08 4:04 PM
12. PowerMonkey Wed, 3/26/08 3:46 PM
13. Emergency mobile phone battery Wed, 3/26/08 3:41 PM
14. Wind up charger for phone. Wed, 3/26/08 1:05 PM
15. Never mattered enough to bother. Wed, 3/26/08 12:30 PM
16. have solar panel, but never need it Wed, 3/26/08 11:24 AM
17. solar and wind up Wed, 3/26/08 11:21 AM
18. hybrid vehicle plus inverter for other SUV Wed, 3/26/08 6:17 AM
19. I have used rollable solar panels connected to a motorcycle battery. Tue, 3/25/08 6:15 PM
Answered question 162
Skipped question 1
11. Are you worried of having your camera/cell phone etc, damaged by water when you are in the outdoors? Choose an answer that fits you the best.
Yes 11.0% 18
Yes, but I use a dry-sack (or similar) 49.1% 80
No 14.7% 24
No, I use a dry-sack (or similar) 25.2% 41
Comments 9
1. My mobile phone is now covered with those Skins things to protect from water out and about in the nature. Sat, 3/29/08 6:15 PM
2. or plastic bag Thu, 3/27/08 11:33 PM
3. ziploc bags for all electronics, double if wet weather is forecast Thu, 3/27/08 9:13 PM
4. Lowe Alpine camera cases are not as weather proof as one might think! Wed, 3/26/08 7:50 PM
5. Concerned, yes - hence the use of the dry-sack: worried, no - because I have taken the appropriate precautions. Wed, 3/26/08 4:43 PM
6. Ortlieb Wed, 3/26/08 4:20 PM
7. for camera , if mobile gets wet it gets wet. Wed, 3/26/08 12:30 PM
8. I have a waterproof camera for backpacking Wed, 3/26/08 4:21 AM
9. pelican case for camera, cell phone. GPS is water proof Tue, 3/25/08 7:11 PM
Answered question 163
Skipped question 0
12. What tools of orientating yourself with do you usually bring when you are in the outdoors (Multiple choice is possible)
Guidebook 29.4% 48
Compass 93.3% 152
Map 97.5% 159
GPS 49.1% 80
None 0.6% 1
Other ways of orienting myself: 16
1. signposts Sun, 3/30/08 11:27 AM
2. altimeter, position of sun Sat, 3/29/08 6:52 PM
3. Use trees branch growth like Ray Mears taught in Tracks TV show sometimes-greatest growth on north side of tree in the northern hemisphere etc Sat, 3/29/08 6:15 PM
4. Altimeter Fri, 3/28/08 4:52 PM
5. Knowledge of the area Fri, 3/28/08 4:32 PM
6. Gravity to make sure I'm standing up! Thu, 3/27/08 1:20 PM
7. Altimeter (main way, much more than compass) Thu, 3/27/08 9:51 AM
8. Sun Wed, 3/26/08 10:54 PM
9. gps is last resort Wed, 3/26/08 6:49 PM
10. Sun, landmarks Wed, 3/26/08 5:19 PM
11. Stick to known trails Wed, 3/26/08 1:20 PM
12. guidebook at home in planning stage , sometimes. Wed, 3/26/08 12:30 PM
13. usually only need map Wed, 3/26/08 11:24 AM
14. experience Wed, 3/26/08 11:21 AM
15. sun position, star position, "sixth sense" when cloudy Wed, 3/26/08 6:17 AM
16. Altimeter Wed, 3/26/08 5:33 AM
answered question 163
skipped question 0
13. What types of water purification methods do use when hiking?(multiple answers are possible)
Boiling 41.1% 67
Chemical (chlorine, iodine...) 33.7% 55
Filtering 33.7% 55
None 37.4% 61
Other (please specify) 10.4% 17
1. bring my own Mon, 4/7/08 5:17 PM
2. Aquamira Mon, 3/31/08 12:29 PM
3. In UK I don't use any in remoter hills. Filter when abroad. Fri, 3/28/08 4:52 PM
4. day walks only nowadays Thu, 3/27/08 11:33 PM
5. Puritabs Thu, 3/27/08 1:08 PM
6. Iodine tablets Thu, 3/27/08 9:19 AM
7. UV treatment Thu, 3/27/08 12:13 AM
8. UK mountains - none, UK lowland/abroad, iodine/boiling Wed, 3/26/08 10:24 PM
9. tried chemical- tastes awful Wed, 3/26/08 8:40 PM
10. Bought a Vario, but haven't used it yet. Scottish Highlands water is usually ok. Wed, 3/26/08 8:08 PM
11. Only drink 'neat' water from moving sources - if I have to get water from a loch or similar then I will boil it Wed, 3/26/08 7:50 PM
12. UV Steripen Wed, 3/26/08 6:14 PM
13. taken from home water supply Wed, 3/26/08 6:04 PM
14. MRS EXMiniworks Wed, 3/26/08 12:30 PM
15. On Trek, UV pen Wed, 3/26/08 11:24 AM
16. F,B,C,N in that order Wed, 3/26/08 6:09 AM
17. UV Wed, 3/26/08 5:33 AM
Answered question 163
Skipped question 0
Attachment 2 - Survey 2 (47 completed surveys)
1.) What are the biggest risks that you face during a hike (or other outdoors activity)?
1. Death/exposure (to the elements) Thu, 4/24/08 3:43 AM
2. Not much of a risk taker, but rattlers are a big fear Tue, 4/22/08 6:14 PM
3. injury and exposure Tue, 4/22/08 12:44 PM
4. I believe the risk of hurting oneself requiring evacuation. Tue, 4/22/08 11:31 AM
5. The risks are largely dependent on the location & season, and I try to assess them on a case-by-case basis. They vary from hypothermia risk to sunstroke & ticks/Lyme disease to bear attack. Getting lost or injured & incapacitated in one form or another is a risk in any outdoors activity. Tue, 4/22/08 10:05 AM
6. Thermo-regulation; hyperthermia, mainly, as I hike in hot weather. Tue, 4/22/08 6:47 AM
7. - Falling and immobilizing yourself - Getting stuck in bog - Fording rivers Tue, 4/22/08 6:39 AM
8. A stroke, heat exhaustion, heart attack. Tue, 4/22/08 5:51 AM
9. Injury. Knee's Tue, 4/22/08 5:28 AM
10. Slip/Trip/Fall Tue, 4/22/08 2:31 AM
11. Hiking alone with my dog, I would say that the chance of an injury or falling off a cliff into a gorge or the ocean and no one knowing but my dog would be my biggest risks I guess Tue, 4/22/08 1:52 AM
12. Hypothermia, injury from falls Tue, 4/22/08 1:07 AM
13. A Fall Exposure Mon, 4/21/08 11:15 PM
14. Hypothermia Mon, 4/21/08 10:52 PM
15. Cold, deep river crossings. I often hike without trails, so breaking an ankle (and being stranded where no one will find me for a long time) is a serious risk as well. Mon, 4/21/08 10:38 PM
16. accidental injury, which could then lead to problems getting out / rescued, lack of food or water, etc. Mon, 4/21/08 10:29 PM
17. Injury or medical problem away from easy treatment. Mon, 4/21/08 10:29 PM
18. I usually backpack alone – any major risk could be bad Mon, 4/21/08 10:19 PM
19. e Mon, 4/21/08 10:09 PM
20. Slips, trips or falls:-) Lack of water on long routes or on hot days. Mon, 4/21/08 9:56 PM
21. As a woman who often hikes alone, safety is a big risk. Followed by getting lost and weather turning bad. Mon, 4/21/08 8:40 PM
22. Getting lost, because it leads to all kinds of other problems such as running out of food or water, overheating or hypothermia, panic and so on. Mon, 4/21/08 7:24 PM
23. Personal injury, unexpected weather conditions Mon, 4/21/08 7:20 PM
24. hypothermia/exposure risks in bad weather, injury from trips or falls-sprains, cuts, dislocations or breaks of bones, animal attacks-usually dogs. Mon, 4/21/08 6:30 PM
25. Weather / hill conditions. Mon, 4/21/08 6:30 PM
26. Your own stupidity. IE: doing stuff that is beyond your abilities, not considering consequences prior to doing something, special awareness (pay attention to what is going on around you). Mon, 4/21/08 6:30 PM
27. Africanized bees. Mon, 4/21/08 6:18 PM
28. Driving to the location. Once in the backcountry I feel relatively safe. Mon, 4/21/08 6:11 PM
29. Injury from a fall, and no way to get help. Mon, 4/21/08 5:25 PM
30. Your own stupidity. Mon, 4/21/08 5:23 PM
31. Hypothermia is probably the biggest risk that I prepare to protect myself from. Mon, 4/21/08 5:22 PM
32. Accident where I am incapacitated Mon, 4/21/08 5:14 PM
33. Physical injury, exposure, bear or mountain lion attack. The likelihood of an attack is extremely low but possible. Mon, 4/21/08 4:54 PM
34. Rattlesnake bite. I feel fairly confident I can deal with just about everything else with my skills and gear on the spot, but snake bites require evacuation. Mon, 4/21/08 4:10 PM
35. Injury. I walk alone and cannot count on there being help at hand. Mon, 4/21/08 4:07 PM
36. The risk of being hurt in the backcountry with little to no access to help. Mon, 4/21/08 3:11 PM
37. Weather, Injury Mon, 4/21/08 3:02 PM
38. Injury, like falling off the trail and breaking an arm or leg, and not being able to hike out. Lots of places I hike are pretty remote and it may be days before someone comes along. Mon, 4/21/08 2:26 PM
39. Falls, Weather created emergencies, predators Mon, 4/21/08 2:17 PM
40. trips/falls leading to injury unexpected weather changes navigational errors Mon, 4/21/08 1:42 PM
41. Lone walking - slip trip or fall Mon, 4/21/08 12:59 PM
42. Poor preparation and poor decision making. Mon, 4/21/08 12:59 PM
43. getting hurt badly, when solo Mon, 4/21/08 12:23 PM
44. injury, breaking an ankle etc Mon, 4/21/08 12:23 PM
45. hypothermia, hyperthermia, dehydration, falls Mon, 4/21/08 12:17 PM
46. Depends on the activity, and when and where it is. Most often cold, but could be traumatic injury (particularly if climbing, for example) or some combination (broken leg could immobilize and lead to hypothermia etc.). Mon, 4/21/08 12:08 PM
47. THE WIND Mon, 4/21/08 12:02 PM
2.) In your opinion what is most important for you survival during a hike etc?
1. Proper gear and proper mind. Thu, 4/24/08 3:43 AM
2. Knowledge Tue, 4/22/08 6:14 PM
3. knowledge and element protective clothing Tue, 4/22/08 12:44 PM
4. Having access to water/food and the knowledge to navigate. Tue, 4/22/08 11:31 AM
5. Mental attitude, willingness to continually reassess the situation & make reasoned decisions, knowledge & training, carrying appropriate kit. Tue, 4/22/08 10:05 AM
6. Means to manage core body temp. Water and extra clothes are at the top of the list. Tue, 4/22/08 6:47 AM
7. Awareness, knowledge and equipment Tue, 4/22/08 6:39 AM
8. Remaining calm, and staying busy(keeping your mind on task) Tue, 4/22/08 5:51 AM
9. A positive attitude Tue, 4/22/08 5:28 AM
10. Warmth Tue, 4/22/08 2:31 AM
11. Antihistamines and epinephrine (allergies, including bees and nuts), a water filter (plenty of water to be found around here), and PROPER CLOTHING Tue, 4/22/08 1:52 AM
12. Knowledge Tue, 4/22/08 1:07 AM
13. Correct kit for the conditions Mon, 4/21/08 11:15 PM
14. Oxygen Mon, 4/21/08 10:52 PM
15. Paying close attention to my surroundings and incoming weather. Listen to my gut, and don't get into any situation I can't get myself out of. Mon, 4/21/08 10:38 PM
16. preparation Mon, 4/21/08 10:29 PM
17. Advance preparation for The Murphy's Law stuff. Fire making, medical basics, water, communication, shelter. NEVER believing that it's "just a simple day hike. I'll be fine without my go-bag. Mon, 4/21/08 10:29 PM
18. Planning ahead of time – weather – conditions, ect … Mon, 4/21/08 10:19 PM
19. e Mon, 4/21/08 10:09 PM
20. Water firstly and then Suitable clothing and or shelter bivy bag, tent, bothy bag etc. Mon, 4/21/08 9:56 PM
21. Having emergency gear and a plan for using it. Mon, 4/21/08 8:40 PM
22. Good navigation, and having appropriate clothing for your hike and the expected weather. Mon, 4/21/08 7:24 PM
23. Knowledge, followed by water and protection from exposure (may be clothing or shelter). Mon, 4/21/08 7:20 PM
24. Keep a clear cool head, take along a small basics of survival kit and good first aid kit Mon, 4/21/08 6:30 PM
25. Knowledge. Mon, 4/21/08 6:30 PM
26. Good attitude and mental preparedness regarding all you may encounter. Everything else is secondary, equip. etc. Mon, 4/21/08 6:30 PM
27. Wits. Mon, 4/21/08 6:18 PM
28. Proper gear, experience, attitude all the above. Mon, 4/21/08 6:11 PM
29. Warmth Mon, 4/21/08 5:25 PM
30. Positive, open mind. Mon, 4/21/08 5:23 PM
31. Protection from the elements Mon, 4/21/08 5:22 PM
32. keeping warm, dry and hydrated Mon, 4/21/08 5:14 PM
33. Water. Fire and shelter if stranded. I know astronomy and I always keep track of where I've been, how far I've come and where I'm headed, so getting lost is not really an issue for me. Mon, 4/21/08 4:54 PM
34. State of mind. You must remain confident that you can figure out a solution, and be willing to keep trying. Mon, 4/21/08 4:10 PM
35. Shelter. Water. Food Mon, 4/21/08 4:07 PM
36. The most important thing for survival during a trip is a positive mental attitude. Other than that you need to make sure you let people know what your itinerary is while out. Mon, 4/21/08 3:11 PM
37. Fire, whether it be a lighter, matches, or flint Mon, 4/21/08 3:02 PM
38. My ability to start a fire. Mon, 4/21/08 2:26 PM
39. Preparation and clear thinking. Mon, 4/21/08 2:17 PM
40. knowledge/skill, map/compass, appropriate clothing/footwear, first aid kit (in that order) Mon, 4/21/08 1:42 PM
41. communications If not available - warm clothing / cover. Mon, 4/21/08 12:59 PM
42. A clear and calm mind. Mon, 4/21/08 12:59 PM
43. water, and warmth at night Mon, 4/21/08 12:23 PM
44. Keeping warm and dry Mon, 4/21/08 12:23 PM
45. Thinking clearly Mon, 4/21/08 12:17 PM
46. Again, will depend a lot on what, when & where. But typically keeping within my limits and having adequate protection from cold. Mon, 4/21/08 12:08 PM
47. QUALITY GEAR Mon, 4/21/08 12:02 PM
3.) Any special gear that you will need for your survival?
1. This depends on the hike. Most often on a long day hike outside/far away from civilization I will carry a flashlight (day and night), warmth (extra clothing and/or sleeping bag), and navigation to always include a map and compass, and a GPS if I feel I'll be off trail. Food for example energy bars (Cliff bars). Bug spary, repellent if needed, suntan lotion if needed. Moleskin and knife just incase of a blister. If I'm hiking solo in a place where there will not be a lot of people, I will also leave an itinerary with a loved one so they will know to call somebody if I don't come out of the woods. Thu, 4/24/08 3:43 AM
2. Water Tue, 4/22/08 6:14 PM
3. bivvybag/shelter Tue, 4/22/08 12:44 PM
4. Blizzard survival bag to remain warm if injured. Tue, 4/22/08 11:31 AM
5. Again dependent on the geography & climate. Generally I carry a mobile phone, basic bivvy gear, signaling whistle, fire kit, a knife, water purification tablets & some spare clothing. The focus is on staying warm & getting found quickly. Tue, 4/22/08 10:05 AM
6. Nothing "special". Container(s) for water, fixed-blade knife, fire method(s), signaling device(s), compass. Tue, 4/22/08 6:47 AM
7. Knife Tue, 4/22/08 5:51 AM
8. Water Filter Tue, 4/22/08 5:28 AM
9. Windproof Tue, 4/22/08 2:31 AM
10. Epipen, space blanket, non cotton clothing Tue, 4/22/08 1:52 AM
11. Basic first aid kit Tue, 4/22/08 1:07 AM
12. Blizzard Bag Penknife Mon, 4/21/08 11:15 PM
13. Water containers, sufficient clothing / footwear Mon, 4/21/08 10:52 PM
14. Not a very well-worded question. I take a PLB (Satellite Personal Locator Beacon) for long solo trips in Alaska, but that's a precaution. Frankly, I hope I never "will need" it. Mon, 4/21/08 10:38 PM
15. water treatment of some sort (filter or a bandana & purification tablets) Mon, 4/21/08 10:29 PM
16. Fire starter (at least 3 methods) Emergency shelter. signaling device. water, or method for purifying existing water. Mon, 4/21/08 10:29 PM
17. always have the big ten - also a gun when I can Mon, 4/21/08 10:19 PM
18. e Mon, 4/21/08 10:09 PM
19. Depends on activity and how well you want to survive. Water and shelter are most important so if water quality is suspect a filter could be a lifesaver. A bothy bag, tent or bivy bag for emergency overnight stops combined with a sleeping bag for scheduled over night stops. Mon, 4/21/08 9:56 PM
20. Rain Gear, 1st Aid Kid, Shelter Mon, 4/21/08 8:40 PM
21. Map and compass, appropriate clothing and some means of attracting attention should you need help. Mon, 4/21/08 7:24 PM
22. Protection from exposure (may be tent or tarp, weatherproof clothing, emergency foil blanket); fire-building tools (lighter, fire-starter); knife; water bottle Mon, 4/21/08 7:20 PM
23. first aid kit, basic survival kit to enable one to be rescued, emergency food ration, water. Shelter sheet or tent, correct clothing for outdoors activity undertaken. methods of signaling for help if needed, from a simple signal whistle/heliograph, to a mobile phone, map and compass or gps, method of starting fire for warmth, and a method for basic water purification e.g. pure tabs or a survival straw. A small pocket knife. paracord for emergency laces or for tying up a basha sheet to make improvised shelter from the elements. Mon, 4/21/08 6:30 PM
24. Emergency shelter. Mon, 4/21/08 6:30 PM
25. Survival mentality and willingness to overcome and survive can take the place of some of the most simple tools and gear you might think you need Mon, 4/21/08 6:30 PM
26. Multi-tool. Mon, 4/21/08 6:18 PM
27. shelter, fire starter equip. Water purification, storage. Mon, 4/21/08 6:11 PM
28. Firestarter Mon, 4/21/08 5:25 PM
29. None. Mon, 4/21/08 5:23 PM
30. Shelter, whether it be a tent, a tarp or a mylar blanket. Mon, 4/21/08 5:22 PM
31. large plastic garbage bag Mon, 4/21/08 5:14 PM
32. Water filter and a dependable, repeatable way to make a fire. Mon, 4/21/08 4:54 PM
33. A good full-tang knife. Everything else can be fashioned as needed. Mon, 4/21/08 4:10 PM
34. No Mon, 4/21/08 4:07 PM
35. Source to make fire, knife, canteen and a tarp Mon, 4/21/08 3:11 PM
36. A good attitude! Mon, 4/21/08 3:02 PM
37. My wits. Mon, 4/21/08 2:26 PM
38. Depends on the locale and time of year. I always carry a small kit with whistle, space blanket, and fire starters. Mon, 4/21/08 2:17 PM
39. As above Mon, 4/21/08 12:59 PM
40. A knife and the ability to make fire. Mon, 4/21/08 12:59 PM
41. verses any other human , no. need food water, and shelter, and health Mon, 4/21/08 12:23 PM
42. waterproofs fleece survival bag phone compass map Mon, 4/21/08 12:23 PM
43. map, compass, flashlight, rain suit Mon, 4/21/08 12:17 PM
44. Guess what... it depends on what, when and where! Mon, 4/21/08 12:08 PM
45. MAP AND COMPASS/GPS
4.) What is most important for your comfort when hiking etc?
1. Proper footwear and comfortable clothing. Thu, 4/24/08 3:43 AM
2. A good pair of shoes Tue, 4/22/08 6:14 PM
3. comfortable shoes/boots Tue, 4/22/08 12:44 PM
4. Clothing that will keep you warm and dry. Tue, 4/22/08 11:31 AM
5. Correct & comfortable footwear, clothes that can be layered to suit changing conditions, access to plenty of fluids, appropriate rucksack. Tue, 4/22/08 10:05 AM
6. Proper footwear. Tue, 4/22/08 6:47 AM
7. GOOD BOOTS - Waterproof clothing - One (1) walking stick - Comfortable load carrying equipment Tue, 4/22/08 6:39 AM
8. No one playing music or being loud Tue, 4/22/08 5:51 AM
9. Well fitting shoes Tue, 4/22/08 5:28 AM
10. Windproof & Waterproof Tue, 4/22/08 2:31 AM
11. Having clean socks, clean clothes just for sleeping in, and having enough food Tue, 4/22/08 1:52 AM
12. Clothing system that keep you dry Tue, 4/22/08 1:07 AM
13. Well fitting boots Comfortable pack Mon, 4/21/08 11:15 PM
14. Food and the ability to stay warm & dry Mon, 4/21/08 10:52 PM
15. Warm (dry) clothes, good food, and a good shelter to spend the night. Mon, 4/21/08 10:38 PM
16. good shoes, cool clothes (difficult to find sufficiently cool clothes in the Deep South) Mon, 4/21/08 10:29 PM
17. Layered clothing making it possible to strip down and also add warmth. Mon, 4/21/08 10:29 PM
18. Good boots - proper clothes Mon, 4/21/08 10:19 PM
19. e Mon, 4/21/08 10:09 PM
20. Planning in advance and risk assessing your route taking into consideration weather, height, water availability, terrain, weight of gear etc and then selecting the correct gear for that particular hike allowing a sensible safety margin.. Mon, 4/21/08 9:56 PM
21. The right shoes and socks Mon, 4/21/08 8:40 PM
22. Well fitting shoes, and the ability to control body temperature and replenish energy. Mon, 4/21/08 7:24 PM
23. Good socks and boots; warm sleeping bag; weather-proof tent Mon, 4/21/08 7:20 PM
24. A good correct comfortable fit of clothing and boots, well balanced rucksack/carried load, good wicking walking socks, t-shirt and underwear, and maybe some shock absorbing boot insoles too. Enough food and water to last out the hike and or for emergency uses. Mon, 4/21/08 6:30 PM
25. Moisture management. Mon, 4/21/08 6:30 PM
26. Comfortable/adequate clothing/food, and gear for the expected conditions. Mon, 4/21/08 6:30 PM
27. Physically fit. Mon, 4/21/08 6:18 PM
28. gear selection. Mon, 4/21/08 6:11 PM
29. Dryness Mon, 4/21/08 5:25 PM
30. Knowledge. Mon, 4/21/08 5:23 PM
31. Proper clothing, from the wicking base layers up through outerwear. Mon, 4/21/08 5:22 PM
32. hiking poles Mon, 4/21/08 5:14 PM
33. Good stury, comfortable shoes/boots. Mon, 4/21/08 4:54 PM
34. Sleeping pad. Specifically, the Big Agnes Insulated Air Core. :) Mon, 4/21/08 4:10 PM
35. Well fitting gear. Mon, 4/21/08 4:07 PM
36. To stay dry and to sleep well at night. Mon, 4/21/08 3:11 PM
37. Good boots Mon, 4/21/08 3:02 PM
38. Good shoes, a properly rated sleeping bag for the conditions I will be in, and good food that won't give me the squirts every 5 minutes. Mon, 4/21/08 2:26 PM
39. Appropriate gear for the trek. Mon, 4/21/08 2:17 PM
40. appropriate clothing/footwear Mon, 4/21/08 1:42 PM
41. temperature control Mon, 4/21/08 12:59 PM
42. Properly fitted boots. Mon, 4/21/08 12:59 PM
43. pack fit, shoe , clothing, sweets , just about everything you would put in a moho, but in smaller package. Mon, 4/21/08 12:23 PM
44. boots that fit Mon, 4/21/08 12:23 PM
45. gourmet food Mon, 4/21/08 12:17 PM
46. suitable clothing Mon, 4/21/08 12:08 PM
47. GOOD BOOTS Mon, 4/21/08 12:02 PM
5.) Any special gear for your comfort you would like to mention?
1. Hiking boots, nylon and polypropylene clothing. Thu, 4/24/08 3:43 AM
2. freeze dried ice cream sandwiches sure hit the spot! Tue, 4/22/08 6:14 PM
3. good boots Tue, 4/22/08 12:44 PM
4. Decent base layer underwear & quality socks make a big difference but are often overlooked. I also carry sunglasses in all weathers to help reduce eye fatigue and keep snow/dust out of my eyes. Tue, 4/22/08 10:05 AM
5. Yes. A small, 12"x12" section of closed-cell foam I use for a seat when resting. I like to have a barrier between my rear end and critters/rocks. Tue, 4/22/08 6:47 AM
6. Chest webbing - very useful to carry all small gear Tue, 4/22/08 6:39 AM
7. Sleeping pad Tue, 4/22/08 5:51 AM
8. Lighter Tue, 4/22/08 5:28 AM
9. Any windproof outer layer. Tue, 4/22/08 2:31 AM
10. Love camp towels and baby wipes, both are so multi purpose! Tue, 4/22/08 1:52 AM
11. Wicking base layer - e.g. dryflo, HH Lifa Mon, 4/21/08 11:15 PM
12. Food containers, stove, tent, sleeping bag Mon, 4/21/08 10:52 PM
13. Again, warm (dry) clothes, good food, and a good shelter. Mon, 4/21/08 10:38 PM
14. no Mon, 4/21/08 10:29 PM
15. I'm never without my Multi-tool...and a picture of my wife. Something to survive FOR, is a real attitude booster. Mon, 4/21/08 10:29 PM
16. I pack an inflatable seat Mon, 4/21/08 10:19 PM
17. e Mon, 4/21/08 10:09 PM
18. A bothy or survival bag is great and allows you to get out of the wind for a few minutes and survive an unscheduled bivouac should the need arise. Down filled lilo (down mat) for camping on when it is very cold or when comfort is required. Synthetic bags are great in very damp conditions and will out perform a down bag when sodden wet. You can get into a synthetic bag with all your wet clothes on and wake up dry in the morning. I Also like the weight advantage of a down bag over a synthetic so in summer when dry or in the middle of winter when very cold and dry I tend to use down bags. Mon, 4/21/08 9:56 PM
19. Sleeping pad for backpacking, or something to sit on while resting on a day hike. Mon, 4/21/08 8:40 PM
20. Lightweight shoes instead of boots, hip belt pockets for snacks. Mon, 4/21/08 7:24 PM
21. Down-filled air mattress and down sleeping bag= heaven in a tent Smart wool socks Mon, 4/21/08 7:20 PM
22. Anything at all that helps you to be that most desirable 'uncomfortable in comfort' type of a scenario, whilst out amongst the elephants. Mon, 4/21/08 6:30 PM
23. Wicking windproof jacket. Mon, 4/21/08 6:30 PM
24. Take anything you think you might need if everything goes south, but be realistic, not paranoid, IE: you really don't need everything in your closet just because you MIGHT need it........ Mon, 4/21/08 6:30 PM
25. A well fitting pair of boots. A therma-rest type of camp chair. Mon, 4/21/08 6:18 PM
26. Good fitting boots. Proper socks. Weather proof shelter. Gear for warmth such as a sleeping bag if in colder climate. Mon, 4/21/08 6:11 PM
27. Good socks Mon, 4/21/08 5:25 PM
28. Flint and knife. Mon, 4/21/08 5:23 PM
29. After proper clothing my sleeping bag and pad combo is most important to me. Mon, 4/21/08 5:22 PM
30. lightweight gear Mon, 4/21/08 5:14 PM
31. My iPod. :D Mon, 4/21/08 4:54 PM
32. I live my Pocket Rocket stove. So small, light, and compact, and so inexpensive. Mon, 4/21/08 4:10 PM
33. Han Wag boots. Very comfortable Mon, 4/21/08 4:07 PM
34. Big Agnes Air Core sleeping pad Mon, 4/21/08 3:11 PM
35. Fishing implements Mon, 4/21/08 3:02 PM
36. Adidas trail running shoes. I don't know what model name but I've been using them for years and they love my feet, and my feet love them.... Mon, 4/21/08 2:26 PM
37. Paramo clothing + merino wool products Mon, 4/21/08 12:59 PM
38. Food Mon, 4/21/08 12:59 PM
39. unnecessary comforts, having nothing to do with trail comfort, PDA with gaps, games, music ,and movies. camera Mon, 4/21/08 12:23 PM
40. breathable waterproofs Mon, 4/21/08 12:23 PM
41. down mat mattress Mon, 4/21/08 12:17 PM
42. under layers that control moisture well (wick sweat away and dry fast), clothes cut for (or stretching to allow) complete freedom of movement. Mon, 4/21/08 12:08 PM
43. GOOD WATERPROOFS GORE-TEX/EVENT Mon, 4/21/08 12:02 PM
Attachment 3 - Survey 3 (52 completed surveys)
1. Your rafting experience:
Beginner 15.4% 8
Intermediate 44.2% 23
Pro 40.4% 21
Comment 7
1. You need an expert category. Pro infers that you make a living doing so. I'd put myself in the expert category. Fri, 5/2/08 6:00 PM
2. Guide Fri, 5/2/08 6:08 AM
3. Need a category advanced. There are plenty of boaters that are not intermediate and not pro. Fri, 5/2/08 3:45 AM
4. Beyond intermediate, but never done it as work Fri, 5/2/08 12:49 AM
5. Sometimes I feel like a beginner Fri, 5/2/08 12:04 AM
6. 100+ days a year Wed, 4/30/08 2:30 AM
7. Do class IV whitewater. Mon, 4/28/08 6:23 PM
answered question 52
skipped question 0
2. Do you own your own rafting gear? (everything but the raft, bags, duffels, knives...)
Yes 92.3% 48
No 7.7% 4
Comment 8
1. I have the raft, bags, duffels, knives, groover, fire pan, kitchen, tables, stoves... all the stuff needed for multiple day trips and then some. Fri, 5/2/08 6:00 PM
2. I own the raft, bags, duffels, knives too Fri, 5/2/08 8:52 AM
3. have own raft and gear Fri, 5/2/08 6:08 AM
4. raft and all Fri, 5/2/08 5:28 AM
5. raft too Fri, 5/2/08 12:49 AM
6. Everything, including kitchen, paddles, helmets, pfd's, oars,... the whole kit and caboodle Fri, 5/2/08 12:04 AM
7. 2 catarafts, 1 raft, a canoe and an IK Wed, 4/30/08 2:30 AM
8. I own a couple rafts also Fri, 4/25/08 5:40 PM
answered question 52
skipped question 0
3. Are you satisfied how the gear functions?
Yes 92.3% 48
No (if no please specify) 7.7% 4
Other (please specify) 3
1. for the most part.. if not get out the dremel tool and make/alter the gear Fri, 5/2/08 12:04 AM
2. uncomfortable Mon, 4/28/08 10:48 AM
3. Pockets and knives on the front of pfd's and waist throw bags that are an impediment to climbing back into or on a flipped raft. As a guide I need to get back in or on the boat fast after it has flipped or I've been thrown out. Snagging on all this stuff getting in the boat makes it much more difficult to get in the boat. When guiding a solo boat trip, this is critical. Fri, 4/25/08 5:40 PM
answered question 52
skipped question 0
4. Is there any equipment you use that could be better adopted towards rafting? (Both rafting oriented gear and other standard gear, like camping gear)
Yes (please specify) 30.0% 15
No, not that I can think of 70.0% 35
Comments 14
1. Lighter weight, multi-functional... Fri, 5/2/08 7:57 PM
2. collapsable tiki torches Fri, 5/2/08 2:21 PM
3. rafting gear in general is quite expensive for what it is... Fri, 5/2/08 8:52 AM
4. There are always cool innovations Fri, 5/2/08 6:08 AM
5. A good shade system that would shade the little ones, not be too expensive and easy to use. Fri, 5/2/08 3:45 AM
6. don't you mean ADAPTED? PhD??? Fri, 5/2/08 3:32 AM
7. smaller, lighter, stronger, drier. Fri, 5/2/08 12:49 AM
8. dinninf fly tarp and raft topper tarp Fri, 5/2/08 12:04 AM
9. camping tarps, camp furniture, raft-specific kitchens Fri, 5/2/08 12:00 AM
10. water storage Thu, 5/1/08 11:55 PM
answered question 50
skipped question 2
5. If there was a compact bag carrying the essentials for rafting/safety/survival would you wear it while rafting?
Yes 42.3% 22
No (if no please specify why) 57.7% 30
Comment 33
1. I wear biners, knife, and flip line. Anything else would be cumbersome. Anything else is better attached in the boat. Wed, 5/7/08 4:10 PM
2. Can carry enough safety gear on my PFD Wed, 5/7/08 4:07 PM
3. Don't like having stuff attached to my person. Tue, 5/6/08 10:12 PM
4. I already wear a flip line, and if the whole boat is gone I can hike out before I'll need matches or something. Sun, 5/4/08 12:44 AM
5. The reason that I raft is so I don't have to have things around my waist it is on the boat. Fri, 5/2/08 7:57 PM
6. As long as the bag was out of the way and didn't impede movement while rowing. It would also depend on the run I'm on. Most of the time we have multiple boats and each boat is carrying their own safety gear. If you lost a boat you would be able to use gear from the other boats to survive. I think 99% of all rafters are running familiar runs that are fairly well traveled and running in large enough groups to handle emergency situations. Fri, 5/2/08 6:00 PM
7. I'd rather have it close at hand instead of on my person Fri, 5/2/08 2:21 PM
8. Maybe - for remote class V yes, otherwise probably no Fri, 5/2/08 8:52 AM
9. not ware it like a pack want it to float on its own Fri, 5/2/08 7:28 AM
10. It depends, usually for safety reasons, we minimize stuff strapped onto us if possible, however we carry essentials, rope, knife, carabiners, whistle etc. on our bodies Fri, 5/2/08 6:08 AM
11. don’t do really dangerous stuff maybe if I did expedition stuff. Fri, 5/2/08 4:40 AM
12. any thing wrapped around your body is an entrapment hazard. Fri, 5/2/08 3:45 AM
13. because it would too heavy Fri, 5/2/08 3:32 AM
14. any extra weight added to an individual would make it much harder to swim for shore in an emergency situation, therefore the bag must be designed to strap in and not worn by the individual Fri, 5/2/08 2:59 AM
15. it's dangerous to have too much crap on your person beyond a pfd, whistle, and knife. stuff gets hung up on things in the right bad situation and you drown. Fri, 5/2/08 2:04 AM
16. Safety hazard Fri, 5/2/08 1:37 AM
17. I wouldn't want to have the bulk of such a case on my person. My PFD already holds my river knife, carabineers and flip line, and I really wouldn't want to carry more than that on me. There's room in the raft for all the other necessary safety gear, and dry bags/ boxes work well for this purpose. Fri, 5/2/08 1:26 AM
18. It would most likely be in the way while rowing. Fri, 5/2/08 1:16 AM
19. it would depend greatly on the circumstances Fri, 5/2/08 12:49 AM
20. possible... depends on how big Fri, 5/2/08 12:04 AM
21. dangerous and risk of snagging entrapment. I already carry a throw bag on my life jacket Fri, 5/2/08 12:04 AM
22. The only thing I wear is necessary clothing, footwear, pdf and a helmet. Anything else and you run a serious risk for getting hung up on something if you come out of the boat. You'll see rookie raft guides wearing a "guide strap" which is a piece of webbing wrapped around their waist attached with biners - this is a very, very stupid thing to do. Fri, 5/2/08 12:00 AM
23. entrapment hazard, and can fit most of what I need in pfd pockets Thu, 5/1/08 11:55 PM
24. Depends on how it fit Thu, 5/1/08 11:51 PM
25. more stuff to snag Thu, 5/1/08 11:15 PM
26. I wear a rescue kit with a throw bag, carabiners, tubular webbing, and pulleys add to that my river knife and my whistle and I have enough on. Wed, 4/30/08 2:30 AM
27. Bulk & Weight Tue, 4/29/08 5:08 PM
28. A good idea that might well have saved a lot of time and trouble to two Americans - a father and doctor son - who had a survival situation to endure after losing their raft in melt water floods on a river system in Alaska, as featured on Channel 4 TV true life tales of survival show Alive recently. Mon, 4/28/08 11:34 PM
29. Beyond what basics I already carry, bulk would start to be and issues, and anything you have strapped to you, also has the chance of becoming a serious danger if you are ejected from a raft, and swimming down a river, straps that hold something on to someone, can also trap a person if snagged while in the water. Mon, 4/28/08 6:23 PM
30. Wearing a life vest is already cumbersome Sat, 4/26/08 2:37 AM
31. uncomfortable Sat, 4/26/08 12:54 AM
32. I fish while I raft I can only envision it being in the way Fri, 4/25/08 6:59 PM
33. As long as it would attach to the back of my pfd, for above reasons Fri, 4/25/08 5:40 PM
answered question 52
skipped question
6. What would you like this bag to include and/or carry? (multiple answers are possible)
Compass 36.5% 19
Emergency food 48.1% 25
Emergency Shelter 44.2% 23
Emergency supplies 55.8% 29
Flashlight 44.2% 23
Insect Repellent 13.5% 7
Knife 67.3% 35
Lighter 73.1% 38
Map 32.7% 17
Raft repair kit 30.8% 16
Sunglasses 17.3% 9
Throw bag (life line) 30.8% 16
Water bottle 36.5% 19
Water purification device 59.6% 31
Please come with your own suggestions 26
1. Pin Kit, first aid kit Wed, 5/7/08 4:07 PM
2. mirror Tue, 5/6/08 10:12 PM
3. beer camelback and bowl Mon, 5/5/08 3:26 AM
4. none of the above I only ticked sunglasses as it would not let me leave it blank. Fri, 5/2/08 3:06 PM
5. I've ticked the bare minimum, the rest I would consider depending on where I was rafting! In some cases there is absolutely no chance of been stranded overnight so much of that stuff would not be worth carrying. Fri, 5/2/08 11:23 AM
6. the bag is for when I get separated from the raft - so a raft repair kit is unnecessary, as is the throw bag. Mps are elocation dependent so including a map in a generic kit is impossible/impractical. sunglasses are a luxury, not a survival item. Fri, 5/2/08 8:52 AM
7. a complete change of closes and a lite to medium weight jacket Fri, 5/2/08 7:28 AM
8. depends on trip type Fri, 5/2/08 6:08 AM
9. instead of a water filter, it should include iodine tablets. Fri, 5/2/08 3:45 AM
10. You don't have a fraction of the real safety gear, how about 1st aid, pullies, z-drag equipment, sat phone, transponder, mirror, splint, basically it is not possible to have an all in one, complete kit. real rafters that have real safety/emergency gear always run more than one boat and split the gear amongst everyone. it is a group effort. Fri, 5/2/08 3:32 AM
11. Wouldn't wear one Fri, 5/2/08 1:37 AM
12. all boaters should have on their person... KNIFE, pulleys, Throw rope, and raft flip strap Fri, 5/2/08 12:04 AM
13. fire starter Fri, 5/2/08 12:04 AM
14. all that gear is already in my dry bag/box somewhere on my rig. it wouldn't be feasible to have it all in one bag anyway. Fri, 5/2/08 12:00 AM
15. flip lines/prussiks, carabiners Thu, 5/1/08 11:55 PM
16. do not need raft repair kit because if I am using this bag than I am separated from my raft. I would think of essentials that you would need if separated from you raft and isolated and cold. Thu, 5/1/08 11:55 PM
17. emergency booze Thu, 5/1/08 11:15 PM
18. fishing gear, signal mirror Thu, 5/1/08 11:01 PM
19. whistle, space blanket,P-38,roll of wire, leatherman Tue, 4/29/08 5:08 PM
20. Heligraph, whistle, emergency survival fishing kit, first aid kit, wet stone for knife/fish hook sharpening, flint and steel firelighter/waterproof matches - for the 3 emergency needed methods of fire, glucose sweets, metal cup, mobile phone pocket. Mon, 4/28/08 11:34 PM
21. none Mon, 4/28/08 6:23 PM
22. Water bottle and sunglasses are usually carried anyways. So might be unnecessary as it will mean carrying double. Mon, 4/28/08 10:48 AM
23. Most of these items are already in my safety kit - Sat, 4/26/08 2:37 AM
24. sealed bag of dry clothes, hypothermia kills Fri, 4/25/08 6:59 PM
25. waterproof fire starter gps sat phone life jacket Fri, 4/25/08 6:41 PM
26. water purification tabs, a platypus bag, sky blazer flares Fri, 4/25/08 5:40 PM
answered question 52
skipped question 0
7. Any specific properties you would like the bag to fulfill? (Size, weight, water tightness etc)
1. no Wed, 5/7/08 4:10 PM
2. Would have to be out of the way and not restrict movement. With the PFD, the only thing I could think of is having something like a waist mounted throw bag, but I would rather have the throw bag for emergencies and not all the other stuff. Wed, 5/7/08 4:07 PM
3. must be waterproof Tue, 5/6/08 10:12 PM
4. she should be tight Mon, 5/5/08 3:26 AM
5. As small as possible Sun, 5/4/08 4:22 PM
6. Very small and waterproof. Sun, 5/4/08 12:44 AM
7. water tight. Fri, 5/2/08 7:57 PM
8. the smaller the better, plus it would need to be waterproof. Fri, 5/2/08 7:00 PM
9. water tightness is key. Size should be kept to a minimum as to not impede the wearer while in use. Fri, 5/2/08 6:00 PM
10. no Fri, 5/2/08 3:06 PM
11. water tight Fri, 5/2/08 2:21 PM
12. Small, enough not to bother me, would want to be 100% watertight, but must be quick to open Fri, 5/2/08 11:23 AM
13. Small enough to fit INSIDE my dry suit probably strapped to my thigh. Check out what Mark Cramer carries for his first Descents of class V rivers in Alaska and Northern Canada (Alsek, Stikine, Susitna). Fri, 5/2/08 8:52 AM
14. have to be watertight whatever keeps u warm and dry Fri, 5/2/08 7:28 AM
15. water tight, light, will not snag on anything if swimming, will not get in the way while boating (sitting in a seat rowing, or on a raft tube) Fri, 5/2/08 6:08 AM
16. watertight Fri, 5/2/08 5:28 AM
17. waterproof, light weight so it doesn't get in the way of a swim Fri, 5/2/08 5:04 AM
18. don’t know Fri, 5/2/08 4:56 AM
19. super small Fri, 5/2/08 4:40 AM
20. It would have to be water tight with a ring to allow it to be clipped to the raft. Fri, 5/2/08 3:45 AM
21. it must be small and light, it can't hinder you swimming or pull you down. it must have a quick release in the case of a snag. Fri, 5/2/08 3:32 AM
22. must be very lightweight and add buoyancy to the wearer if it is to be worn. also must not hinder swimming ability Fri, 5/2/08 2:59 AM
23. it would have to be very small, waterproof and fit in place very out of the way on the person. can't even think where. a fanny pack would get in the way with a basic rowing seat and in front would possibly catch on the oars which get it thrown in the trash pretty fast by me Fri, 5/2/08 2:04 AM
24. NA Fri, 5/2/08 1:37 AM
25. small lightweight water tight comfortable to carry and use Fri, 5/2/08 1:36 AM
26. obviously it would need to be very waterproof. Fri, 5/2/08 1:26 AM
27. Small, Dry, reflective Fri, 5/2/08 1:16 AM
28. d Fri, 5/2/08 1:10 AM
29. small, comfy, durable, maintanance free. Fri, 5/2/08 12:49 AM
30. if it is not comfortable it won't be worn Fri, 5/2/08 12:48 AM
31. watertight is obvious, compact, a wrap around the waist with buckle to keep it out of the way, separated compartments for organization and if one compartment fails the others are fine. Fri, 5/2/08 12:14 AM
32. Should be all 3. small, light, and water tight. Fri, 5/2/08 12:04 AM
33. tiny Fri, 5/2/08 12:04 AM
34. Small enough to fit into BA pocket, Light weight, floats, easy to access with cold hands, have an attachment point to an item of clothing but not a snag hazard and long lasting so doesn’t need to be constantly checked and replaced Fri, 5/2/08 12:01 AM
35. N/A Fri, 5/2/08 12:00 AM
36. small, quick release Thu, 5/1/08 11:55 PM
37. easy to carry Thu, 5/1/08 11:55 PM
38. Has to be comfortable Thu, 5/1/08 11:51 PM
39. field is required Thu, 5/1/08 11:15 PM
40. Ideally, be able to fit most of not all into the pocket of a PFD or a small fanny pack Thu, 5/1/08 11:01 PM
41. No I would not wear it Wed, 4/30/08 2:30 AM
42. water resistant Tue, 4/29/08 5:08 PM
43. Definitely waterproof compartments, but to save weight of the whole thing this can be stitched onto a nylon mesh backing - like the old SA lightweight battle vest as worn in the TV adaptation film of the Bravo 2 Zero story -Sean Bean stars. It must be able to hang below the level of a buoyancy aid/life vest too for certain! For support of this item though - which I suggest would be similar in style to an old US ARMY Butt pack item/belt order in army webbing. It could hang down to no more than half way between the knee and the hip though, like an army respirator case for US Forces; or behind one as does the army old style Butt pack already above aforementioned. Mon, 4/28/08 11:34 PM
44. no Mon, 4/28/08 6:23 PM
45. Fitted. Should be easy to carry and should be light weight. Should probably be attached to you somehow as an emergency probably wouldn't allow you to collect gear... Mon, 4/28/08 10:48 AM
46. If any sort of safety bag would be worn, I would expect it to be integrated into a life vest. Sat, 4/26/08 2:37 AM
47. weight, size Sat, 4/26/08 12:54 AM
48. Well the watertight is a no brainier. Wouldn't do you much good if the stuff was all wet. Light weight maybe floating Fri, 4/25/08 6:59 PM
49. light weight class 3 solar battery charger integrated into back panel Fri, 4/25/08 6:41 PM
50. water tightness Fri, 4/25/08 5:40 PM
51. About the size of a large lumbar pack such as the size that you find on the removable top of large internal frame expedition packs. Also make it 100% water proof. Try to keep the pack and its contents ................
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