Expect the unexpected! and be prepared for it!Preparation gets one closer to safety... Solotripper U got it...U really never know what will come out of people in stressfull/panic situations some folks shine like a star that leads them/U/a family member/a dear friend/spouse out of bunko situation some folks crumble and loose their wits...your friend is a big person to acknowledge his temporary loss of wits-I surmise that he grew a ton from the experience of the suprise ;)A PFD closes the door on some of the cold water issues, or a least gives one an opportunity to have more time to solve an issue like a cold water dump, that is why I ALWAYS wear one, no matter what the time of the year. ;)Understanding rescue techniques, hypothermia,  and mammalian reflex ( face out of the wind/waves after a dunk in water, dont panic and keep your wits ;) which should B easier to do with preparation) which should be a part of ones understanding IMHO.  But for the life of me I can imagine even attempting a canoe over canoe rescue in surf will gear lashed in :o