Swiftwater Rescue (Level 4):  Are you an avid rafter or kayaker, who's learned the basics of river running, and wanting to become more of an asset to those you paddle with?  Have you ever wondered what your role would be if you came upon the scene of a pinned raft, stranded paddler or someone who's life may be threatened?  Do you rely on the experrience of others to decide what to do in an emergency?   You need not be an experienced paddler to help in the event of an emergency, but you should know the roles that need to be filled and have a basic understanding of how to lend a hand without becoming another vicitm.

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In this 3 day course, paddlers of all skill and experience levels will learn to work together as a team to solve complex problems using simple tools and proven concepts in a methodical progression.

This course teaches 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.  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.

Day 1 will cover how to tie simple, but effective knots, strategies for how knots evolve into systems, and self-rescues.

Day 2 will apply the knots and systems learned in Day 1 to rescues in a horizontal plane (across the river), group management as well as roles and responsibilities for each member of the team.

Day 3 will apply the same knots and systems learned in Day 1 to rescues in a vertical plane (extractions from above the river).

Although new technical skills will be taught, this class focuses on developing judgment and applying skills in rescue scenarios.  Scope and content of the course will vary, based upon participant needs, interests and experience. This is a ACA sanctioned class and participants who complete the training will receive an ACA Card of completion for SWR level III, IV, V based on performance and aptitude.