Swiftwater Rescue Information
These two or three day clinics on the Arkansas River near Salida is perfect for commercial and private boaters looking to brush up on their river safety skills. No prerequisites required. Upon successful completion of the course, participants receive an ACA SWR Skill Certificate of Completion card suitable for raft guides and other professionals.
What are the differences and similarities between the 2 and 3 day options? The core of the material is very much the same. Both versions meet the 16 hours as defined for an “L4” ACA swiftwater rescue course, and participants will receive a Proof of Completion Certificate.
The difference is that the 3 day allows the class to spend more time on various aspects of practice including taking a much deeper dive into more complex mechanical advantage systems including the “Z-Drag.” Along with additional skills practice, the 3 day will also include more in-water scenarios to facilitate working a rescue as a team and to experience those skills in action.
Please call us at 719-398-1180 with any additional questions you might have.
Course Overview: The Swiftwater Rescue workshop 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. 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 its strengths and weaknesses
Utilize rescue scene management principles needed within a paddling group
Please review the Essential Eligibility Criteria (EEC) and a basic gear list here.