Level 4: Whitewater Kayaking

Article Index

Page 3 of 6
Equipment: Rescue: 
  • Kayak: types, materials, flotation, parts (including safety features: walls, foot braces, grab loops)
  • Principles of Rescue 
  • Kayak outfitting: comfort & safety; back rests, hip pads
    • Priorities - People, Boats, Gear 
  • Paddle: types, parts, length, blade size & shape, fitting, hand position
    • Responsibilities of Victim
  • Spray skirts: types & material, grab loop!
    • Responsibilities of Rescuers 
  • Care of equipment
  • Types of Rescue 
  • Personal Equipment: water, food, shoes, sunscreen, bug spray, sun glasses, eyeglass straps, protective clothing for heat or cold, sponge, hat, foot protection, food, bailer, whistle
    • Self-Rescue in moving current (REQUIRED)
  • Car topping: Loading and unloading, racks, tie down
    • Body/boat positions 
  • Life jackets (PFDs): types, fit
    • Handling equipment 
  • Helmet: types, fit
    • Boat-Assisted Rescue 

 
    • Tired Swimmer 

 
    • Towing

 
    • Bumping 

 
    • Shoreline Rescue - Extension Rescues 

 
    • Use of Throw Bags/Ropes 

 
    • Pinned Craft 

 
  • Introduce ACA River Rescue Course 

 
  • Need to take a First Aid and CPR course