Article Index

Course Overview

The River Safety and Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and simple rescues of paddlers in distress. Emphasis is placed both on personal safety and on simple, commonly used skills. Fundamental techniques for dealing with hazards that carry greater risks for both victim and rescuer, such as entrapments, and pins, also are taught.

PFD designed for whitewater use, whitewater helmet, protective clothing suitable for extended swimming in cold water, protective footwear, boat, paddle, whistle and throw rope.

NOTE: The CCA brings a gear bag with lots of extra prusik cords and climbing webbing for knot tying practice.

This is a one day class to be taught on rivers up to class II rapids.

ACA Official Curriculum: Level 3: River Safety and Rescue

Introduction, Expectations, & Logistics

Rescue Philosophy
 

The Paddling Environment

Scene Management

Personal Preparation

 
  Medical Issues
 
 
 
 
 

 

Equipment Water Hazards and Hydrology

Throw Ropes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Swimming Pins
Wading Entrapment
 
 
Boat-based rescue  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

   

Scenarios Resources

Conclusion & Wrap Up