Dear Eternal Optimist,
We share your interest in safety. Believe us when we say that each death on one of our products is both painful and costly. We share your interest in customers having a very positive experience in the industry we serve.
Our product numbers are not really a trade secret. Anyone is free to gather information about the numbers of RBs in use. However, when we know that any such information released will simply be cut in half (because?), we wonder what particular purpose it serves. In fact, another company associated with the rebreather market represents that their estimates of numbers in use are "within 10%" of the correct figures. We question whether, in that environment, it makes sense to do anything. Don't you already have accurate figures?
While we understand speculation is not desired, we have to say that it might be best to remain silent. The same company that believes they have accurate exposure data has already broadcast their intent to support plaintiff's attorneys in any lawsuits brought against us. While we understand an "eternal optimist" thinking that might be an environment where free exchange of ideas would be beneficial, please forgive us if we simply say we're unconvinced.
We do appreciate your interest. We also truly appreciate your diligence while diving our products as any death hurts all concerned -- the diver, the family, the manufacturer, and the industry.
With warm regards,
Manufacturers
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Sorry, just what I'd say if I were one of "them".
