Safety has always been a primary concern of vessel operation. We have safety training, fire extinguishers, life rafts, flare kits, EPIRBs and all the other items needed to protect life and limbaboard our boats.With that in mind, I am amazed  at the number of crew I see riding motorcycles without any helmets or safety attire. (A photo in The Triton after charity poker runs this fall motivated me to write.)Proper gear includes full-face helmet, padded jacket, heavy duty jeans or corduroy/leather pants, over-theankle boots and gloves.Modern-designed mesh clothing makes this possible in the 90 degree weather we have down here in summer. I’m a motorcyclist not a biker. Bikers are in it for the “lifestyle” and “image.” Motorcyclists are more concerned with the actual riding and safety of it. It’s damn dangerous. The damage done to skin is horrible to see from the typically dressed sport bike rider down here. Shorts, tank top and sandals are typical. I just don’t understand it. I know it’s a personal choice but I say it’s better to sweat than to bleed any day of the year. Helmets save lives and safety riding gear saves skin grafts. I ride and wear all the gear all the time,and that is my choice.

Capt. Tedd Greenwald