Question on umbrella etiquette is well-covered

Scripps Howard

Q. I have had it with those huge golf umbrellas. Who do those goofs think they are with those 84-inch-diameter umbrellas? Those umbrellas are correctly called “fairway umbrellas.” They are therefore intended for use on the huge fairways on the golf course and not narrow city sidewalks. I have been poked and assaulted for nearly 20 years now by the jerks with the huge umbrellas. I have also witnessed countless others poked with them.

For the most part, the offenders are men who like to advertise their choice of favorite golf products or country club. Using those huge umbrellas in a downtown setting is categorically rude! What do you think?

A. Nothing shields you from rain as conveniently as a huge umbrella. While most umbrellas are so inadequate that they manage to shield only a portion of the upper body, those super-size fairway umbrellas can be counted on to satisfy.

But they also can annoy. Gigantic umbrellas can be dangerous to passers-by, especially on narrow or crowded sidewalks.

Those who insist on using them in congested urban areas should be considerate, hoisting them higher as necessary to keep from poking people or knocking smaller umbrellas.

Everyone can benefit from a lesson in umbrella etiquette. If you see someone without one, offer to share yours. And be careful when opening an umbrella or when closing a wet one. Nobody wants to be poked or be the recipient of an unwanted shower when fully clothed.