Pat, I went overboard ON PURPOSE last summer in Lake Michigan and it was a good learning experience. (We were anchored north of Bradford Beach, and the kids wanted to swim, but were afraid to jump in. So I went first.) My first thought was that I should have had on a PFD (the kids all did). The water was very cold and it took my breath away. I was fine after a few minutes (numb actually, but breathing ok), and it confirmed my notion that I always should have on a PFD while sailing. At first we did it to set a good example for the boys, but now I feel naked going out without my SOS-pender inflatable PFD. We don't typically tether in unless the seas are really rough. Talk to Vince at _www.ahoycaptain.com_ (http://www.ahoycaptain.com) and he'll set you up. (I'm not affiliated to them at all, just had a great customer service experience.) Shana #6564 Sundog Milwaukee
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