Swiftwater Rescue Courses

Dynamic Wilderness Education LLC is pleased to offer American Canoe Association (ACA) Swiftwater Rescue Certification and Skills Courses. These courses provide instruction in the recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, self-rescue techniques, and effective rescue strategies for paddlers in distress. Emphasis is placed on personal safety and the mastery of fundamental, readily applicable skills. Participants will also learn and practice more advanced techniques for mitigating higher-risk scenarios, including strainers, rescue vest utilization, entrapments, and pin incidents. Scenario-based training provides ample opportunity for participants to hone their skills both individually and as part of a cohesive team.

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.