
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:
More dates to be announced soon. Contact us at rescue@usnwc.org to set up a class for your group.