ACA River Safety Rescue L3

Category

Instruction

Duration

Full Day

Ages:

16+

Level

Beginner

:

This Course Lays a Solid Foundation in Safety for Beginning Whitewater Paddlers

The ACA Level III River Safety and Rescue workshop teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and simple rescues of paddlers in distress. 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, such as entrapments, and pins, also are taught.

The American Canoe Association (ACA) River Safety & Rescue Level 3 workshop teaches valuable boater safety skills that all whitewater paddlers will be able to put into practice; recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and simple rescues of paddlers in distress. 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, such as entrapments, and pins, also are taught. This course lays a solid foundation in safety for beginning whitewater paddlers or those who have not yet taken a rescue or river safety class.

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
  • Practice methods for recovering swimmers, and loose boats and equipment

Pre-Requisites

During this course we will spend time in class I-II moving water. Boaters should be able to competently maneuver their craft in class II rapids. Participants should be in overall good health, a confident swimmer, and able to hold their breath under water.

Equipment

Each participant must have the following items for class. Discounted equipment rental package is available from OAC, with advance notice.

  • PFD designed for whitewater use
  • whitewater helmet
  • protective clothing suitable for extended swimming in cold water (wetsuit or drysuit with appropriate layers)
  • protective footwear
  • boat
  • paddle
  • whistle
  • throw rope
Rentals
Person: Ages 16+
$99