Random thoughts on water safety and vacations ---

I've heard that God watches after drunks and babies - I think probably tourists too, which is a very nice thing indeed. Given the risky behaviour I observe daily, things are really pretty darn good here.

The scariest stuff I see visitors do around the water ......

1. swim laps in boat lanes

2. take kayaks out alone (in any weather)

3. people who can't swim at all (or who are in poor physical condition) going kayaking

4. the northerner thing that started this conversation

5. hard-partying on docks in the night

6. screaming in or near the water when there is nothing wrong - the "boy who cried wolf" syndrome kicks in after a while and it's very possible we won't respond when there is a real emergency

Anyway - I think it would be good for resorts to chain their water toys up in risky weather ..... and yes agree totally, we as residents should take the time to kindly advise our guests when they are about to do something ill-advised. We should do it as nicely as we can, and should not tire of offering a helping hand whenever possible.

I also think it is impossible for any resort operator to keep tabs on the whereabouts of their guests - it's not practical and I don't think anybody wants to stay in a resort where they have to sign in and out.