In the past, the various national agencies that get called in for rescues have resisted the idea of charging for the rescue. The reasoning is that people won't call when they really need help. I haven't made up my mind on that.

Ok, you say, "Big deal. They don't call, not my problem." What's going to happen...a long search for the bodies, not knowing where the heck they are. It's not like you've really saved anything.

So what happens when it is Capt. Clueless sailing into a storm when he should have known better. Now you might not feel sorry for him...but what about his wife and kids or others who happen to be on board?

This isn't a yay or nay post, just thinking through some consequences here. I personally would like to see a "means test" for sending a bill for rescue. Not saying let anyone off light...but also try to prevent the bill from becoming a reason NOT to contact authorities when someone needs help.