The Washington Kayak Club is excited to provide a full two day Swiftwater Rescue course.

The Swiftwater Rescue Level 4 course takes a kayak specific approach to learning the fundamentals of river rescue. Participants need a hardshell or Inflatable kayak for downriver travel in portions of the course. This course is highly interactive and is designed to challenge all levels of kayakers.  The Swiftwater Rescue course teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and the management and execution of 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 the paddler in distress 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.

Lee Baker, of Gradient River Essentials, is passionate about meeting each student where they are at in their interpersonal and technical skills in swiftwater rescue. He and his instructors prepare vigorously to make this weekend one of fun and growth for every participant.

Course Prerequisites: Boaters should be able to competently maneuver their craft in Class I-II rapids. Participants should be in good health and overall fitness, possess solid swimming ability, and be comfortable swimming in moving current during river drills. Participants should dress appropriately for weather and temperature and expect to be in the water for extended periods of time.

Minimum personal equipment for class: PFD designed for whitewater use, whitewater helmet, protective clothing suitable for extended swimming in cold water, protective footwear, boat, paddle, whistle, throw rope.

Bring if you have it, but not necessary to purchase: (I have lots of gear available for you to use as well): River knife, Type 5 Rescue PFD with a quick release system, 4 locking carabiners, 3 pulleys, 2 prusik loops, 15+ feet of one inch tubular nylon webbing.

Location TBD