Demonstrate a working knowledge of all types of boat-based rescue, for all paddle craft

Boats are like a Swiss Army knife in rescues.  Decked boats is skilled hands are much faster in getting to a victim.  Open canoes and rafts are far more stable and may be essential for safe evacuation of a victim.  Take a look at the many uses of boats in rescues and think about how your boat can be used.

  • Transportation - A boat is typically the fastest way to reach a victim.
  • Ambulance - A raft or canoe can safely carry an injured boater downstream.
  • Barge - A boat can carry a fair amount of rescue gear, even kayaks.  Check out Ron Ray's kayak some time - LOL.  Besides the mandatory throw rope, some carry folding saws, pin kits, first aid kits, food & water, extra clothing, spare paddles, etc.  Try not to go overboard.
  • Tow Truck - Along with a rescue vest and tether, you can tow pretty much any boat, swimmer, or paddle - sometimes all three at once.
  • Messenger - The boat is the fastest way down stream to request assistance.  On easier water, a kayak can go back upstream pretty quick as well.
  • Crane or pier - You can assist someone in trying to right their boat via a hands of god maneuver or a bow rescue.
  • Drainage - You can quickly empty water by dragging their boat upside down over yours.
  • Bulldozer - You can plow a swamped boat to shore.
  • Sea Anchor - You can pull a boater trapped in a hydraulic out from a safe distance using fast current to assist.
  • Life Raft - In big water, most PFDs have a tough time staying on the surface.  A boat with air bags is like a mega-PFD.
  • Other - There are other uses as well like a quick shelter on land.  Use your imagination.

We often have a number of different craft in our rescue classes.  Each craft has unique capabilities and rescue challenges.  Heres a quick summary:

  • Decked Boats
    • Generally the fastest craft and most maneuverable
    • Leg entrapment can be an issue but madern designs have greatly mitigated this risk
  • Open Canoes
    • Great for carry heavier gear that would impact kayak handling
    • Also can handle long length gear like a broken kayak paddle
    • Pins are generally more serious as they hold a great deal of water
  • Rafts
    • The most stable platform
    • Great rescue platform and often used by rescue squads
    • Amazing capacity for gear and people
    • Generally requires special techniques for unpinning
    • Self-Bailing rafts are replacing the older bucket rafts and are far less prone to pinning
  • SUP (Stand-up Paddleboards)
    • Surprisingly versatile
    • The least stable platform in whitewater
    • Makes the Hand of God rescue a breeze due to leverage
    • A perfect backboard
    • Excellent visability just like a raft
    • Careful choice of the correct leash and a waist mounted quick release are essential