ACA Swiftwater Rescue

ACA Essentials of River Safety & Rescue

This ACA course teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques and simple rescues of paddlers in distress in a flatwater environment. Emphasis is placed both on personal safety and on simple, commonly used skills. Fundamental techniques for dealing with hazards that carry greater risks for both victim and rescuer (entrapments, pins, etc.) are taught. This course is aimed primarily at new boaters or boaters who do not anticipate paddling in whitewater.

Minimum gear requirements:

  • Dress appropriately for weather (drysuit, wetsuit, etc.)
  • Helmet (lightweight water or kayak helmet)
  • PFD (USCG Type III or V)
  • Shoes (thick-soled water booties or tennis shoes)
  • Throw bag
  • Two locking carabineers

Prerequisites:

  • Basic swimming ability

Other course information:

  • Price: $150
  • Experience Level: Beginner
  • Duration: 2 day (16 – 18 hours)
  • Minimum Age: 16 years old
  • Course Capacity: 8 – 18 participants

Course availability:

ACA Swiftwater Rescue

This ACA course teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue techniques for paddlers in distress in a swiftwater environment. 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 are taught. These scenarios will provide the opportunity for participants to practice their skills both individually and within a team/group environment.

Minimum gear requirements:

  • Dress appropriately for weather (drysuit, wetsuit, etc.)
  • Helmet (lightweight water or kayak helmet)
  • PFD (USCG Type III or V)
  • Shoes (thick-soled water booties or tennis shoes)
  • Throw bag
  • Two locking carabineers

Prerequisites:

  • Basic swimming ability

Other course information:

  • Price: $150
  • Experience Level: Beginner – Advanced
  • Minimum Age: 16 years old
  • Duration: 2 days (16 – 18 hours)
  • Course Capacity: 12 participants

Course availability:

ACA Advanced Swiftwater Rescue

The ACA course is aimed at trip leaders, boaters paddling on more challenging whitewater, and anyone desiring the opportunity to develop their rescue skills. Critical judgment and rescue awareness, taken within the context of both group and personal safety, are emphasized throughout the course. This class focuses on developing judgment and applying skills in rescue scenarios. The scope and content of the course will vary, based upon participant needs, interests and experience.

Minimum gear requirements:

  • Dress appropriately for weather (drysuit, wetsuit, etc.)
  • Helmet (lightweight water or kayak helmet)
  • PFD (USCG Type III or V)
  • Shoes (thick-soled water booties or tennis shoes)
  • Throw bag
  • Two locking carabineers

Prerequisites:

  • Basic swimming ability

Other course information:

  • Price: $150
  • Experience Level: Intermediate – Advanced
  • Duration: 2 day (16 – 18 hours)
  • Minimum Age: 16 years old
  • Course Capacity: 12 participants

Course availability: