Swiftwater Rescue Courses
Dynamic Wilderness Education LLC is proud to be able to teach American Canoe Association Swiftwater Rescue Certification and Skills Courses. These Courses are designed to teach recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress. Emphasis is placed both on personal safety and on simple, commonly used skills. Fundamental and more advanced techniques for dealing with hazards that carry greater risks for both victim and rescuer, such as strainers, rescue vest applications, entrapments, and pins, also are practiced. Scenarios will provide an opportunity for participants to practice their skills both individually and within a team/group context.
Course Objectives
Promote proactive prevention of river accidents and injuries.
Develop and practice key self-rescue skills.
Identify and avoid river hazards by understanding hydrology, hazards, and river features.
Focus on fast, low-risk strategies for early management of river accidents.
Develop and practice methods for recovering swimmers, and loose boats and equipment.
Develop and practice more advanced rope-based and in-water skills.
Gain experience using the rescue PFD, and understand it’s strengths and weaknesses.
Utilize rescue scene management principles needed within a paddling group.
Pre-Requisites
During this course, we will spend time in Class I-II moving water. Boaters should be able to competently maneuver their craft in Class II rapids. Non-boater participants with an interest in swiftwater rescue are also welcome. Participants should be in overall good health, a confident swimmer, and able to hold their breath underwater. Participants should dress appropriately for weather and temperature, and should expect to be in the water for extended periods of time.