I don't want to sound flippant, but I'm past the worry about entanglement. I put them in my boat in June, and taught a rescue/skills class every Monday night all summer. I've probably done 50 or 60 wet exits so far with this system in place, and it has never been a problem. So, I can say I've adequately addressed it, and I'm not worried about it. Is it still a risk? Yes, but small, and acceptable to me.

However, I don't want novices to think they can simply install this in their boats and not worry about it, just because it worked for me. Everyone is responsible for their own safety. It's your life.

Shawn

: When I saw the picture, I was also concerned about entanglement (reminded me
: of those obstacle course webs where football players or military have to
: pick up their feet to not get tripped). Although they don't stick out much
: in the picture, you should probably be careful about the size of the items
: that you put in (and if you safety tie those items in, there is the
: concern of another cord to deal with). Close fitting shoes would
: definitely reduce the potential risk. I was wondering if another idea
: would be to replace the bungie cord with a lycra or thin neoprene fabric.
: This would give a smooth surface, but still retain the holding power and
: stretchiness for the storage. For someone as adept at the sewing machine,
: this modification shouldn't be too difficult.

: I have been thinking about the entanglement risk for awhile, and wondering
: how many trapped-in-the-kayak accidents there really are. I don't want to
: dismiss the risk, because the consequences could be very severe. I
: remember that Sea Kayaker magazine once printed a notice that they wanted
: people to write in with any entrapment stories, but I don't think there
: has been an article reporting their results.