Web Paddling: Prepare for the Unexpected

December 2003 - January 2004

This is an article from WaveLength Magazine, available in print in North America and globally on the web.
To download a pdf copy of the magazine click here: > DOWNLOAD

by Ted Leather

If you tried to view the WaveLength website at the end of October, you would have found we had disappeared from view for 48 hours when WaveLength’s web server computer in Texas “fried its hard drive”.

Just like many who think themselves competent in their field, I thought I had it all together. Things were well backed up and I was ready for any trouble. Foolish me!

Sure, I had backed up all the info, but it was the configuration, like email and database set-ups, where I was missing the boat.

Little did I know that the back-up process had not been set up on the server. To make matters worse, I had 40 something websites on that server, so when all 40+ went down at once, along with all their configurations, it wasn’t long before my phone started ringing (sending me an email was out, as my personal website and email was also on that server).

So just a word from the somewhat wiser—don’t assume you have it all together. Being thorough and having a backup plan is the key to safety. In my case, all it cost me was a little time and work, but if you’re out in a kayak and the unexpected happens, the cost could be much higher. So be like the proverbial boy scout and always be prepared. Have the proper training for the level of paddling you are doing. Make sure your gear is adequate. Leave a float plan with your family or friends, or at least tell someone where you plan to paddle and when you will return.

But probably the biggest safety precaution you can take is to have a paddling partner. It’s also usually a lot more fun that way.

Knowing this, WaveLength has made an effort to provide a structure on our website to make it easy for people to find partners.

PADDLING CLUBS PAGE

If you find you have no one to paddle with, the best way to find someone is to locate a paddling club and get to know the local paddlers. The WaveLength website maintains a list of paddling clubs which either have a website or a contact email address. If you plan to travel somewhere new to paddle, find a club in the area you’re going and make contact with them to find partners and/or the best local paddling spots. It’s very useful to also ask about local conditions. If your club isn’t already on the list, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us and we will be happy to post a web link to it.

PADDLING PARTNERS PAGE

The WaveLength website also provides another method to find a paddling partner. If you go to our Paddling Partners page, you will find a list of more than 450 people who have submitted their names, email addresses and paddling areas. This is a great way to find others who are looking for someone with whom to paddle. You can view the whole list or search specific geographical areas. If you like, you can also add your name and info to the list.

© Ted Leather is the WaveLength Webmaster and owner of Clayrose Internet Creations on Gabriola Island. www.clayrose.com.