Skills Course Overview

The Advanced Swiftwater Rescue workshop is aimed at trip leaders, boaters paddling on more challenging whitewater, and anyone desiring opportunities to develop their rescue skills. Critical judgment and rescue awareness, impacting both personal and group safety, are emphasized throughout the course. Although new skills may 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.

Course Objectives

Skills Course Prerequisites

Minimum Personal Equipment for Class

Live jacket designed for whitewater use, whitewater helmet, protective clothing suitable for extended swimming in cold water, protective footwear, boat, paddle, whistle, throw rope, 15+ feet of one inch tubular nylon webbing, 2 locking carabiners, and 2 prusick loops. Additional equipment may be used, depending on the participant’s background and specific course content.

Course Duration:

2 Days (16 hours) minimum

Course Location / Accessible Venues

Sections of rivers rated up to and including class II-III, where maneuvering in current is required to avoid obstacles.

A rapid class includes rapids at the lower and upper ends of the difficulty range, designated “-“ and “+”  respectively.

A deep chute of water with well-defined eddy lines and no immediate hazards or risks below. Protected space is needed for on-land work with adequate shelter for inclement weather.

Instructor

This course may be offered by Level 5: Advanced Swiftwater Rescue ACA Instructors, Instructor Trainers, or Instructor Trainer Educators.