Katahdin Rescue’s Swiftwater Rescue Courses are dynamic, hands-on, and catered to Maine’s conditions: seasonal realities, cold water, remote access, and local trip patterns. With a focus on hazard identification, risk assessment, and rescue techniques for yourself and others, Swiftwater Rescue is vital for anyone leading trips on Maine’s rivers. Participants will build a foundation of skills and knowledge that will enable them to lead with confidence and calm authority, make better decisions on and around the water, and feel prepared for situations that arise on the river.
Katahdin Rescue’s Swiftwater Rescue Courses align with both Sierra Rescue’s River Rescue Certification and American Canoe Association’s Level 4: Swiftwater Rescue curricula. Participants who complete this course will receive a Sierra Rescue certification card and an American Canoe Association participation card.
Katahdin Rescue emphasizes context-built delivery in our instruction. Swiftwater Rescue courses may be tailored to various watercraft (rafts, kayaks, canoes), trip types (day trips or expeditions), and participant groups. Complete the pre-course customization survey here and let us know how we can best cater to your needs.
Who should take a Swiftwater Rescue Course?
Swiftwater Rescue Courses are designed for river professionals and river enthusiasts who lead trips and recreate on Maine’s rivers and streams.
- Whitewater Guides
- Whitewater Kayak Instructors
- Registered Maine Guides
- Camp Counselors
- School Outdoor Program Leaders
Before taking this course, participants must have a basic knowledge of hydrology and the ability to run at least class I-II rapids in their craft of choice.
General Information
Topics Covered
- Preparation
- Personal Protective Equipment
- Personal Rescue Equipment
- River Features and Hydrology
- Risk Assessment – Hazards and Group Assessment
- River Signals and Communications
- Rescue Strategies and Scene Management
- Rescue Roles
- Phases of Rescue
- Rescue Priorities
- Skills
- Wading/Shallow Water Crossing
- Swimming
- Defensive vs. Aggressive Techniques
- Swimming Through Features (Holes, Eddies, Waves, Strainers)
- Ferying
- Swiftwater Entries
- Throw Bags
- Contact Rescues
- Tethered Rescues – Quick Release Rescue Harness
- Rigging
- Knots, Hitches, and Anchors
- Mechanical Advantage
- Scenarios
- Foot Entrapment
- Craft Pins and Wraps
- Craft Flips
- Missing Person(s)
Learning Outcomes
- Increase knowledge of the river environment in order to make better decisions regarding group and risk management on the river
- Practice moving in and around the river through swimming, wading, and using ropes. Utilize these techniques for self-rescue and for rescuing others.
- Gain an introduction to rope rescue systems and mechanical advantage
- Gain understanding of rescue strategy and scene management principles
- Get hands-on practice with skills and scenarios on the river
Course Expectations
- Daily schedule: typically 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Mandatory Attendance
- Participants should be dressed appropriately for weather and water temperature, prepared to be in the water for extended periods of time.
Packing List
If you are missing any of the gear listed below, contact Katahdin Rescue. We can provide gear or point you towards gear rentals if needed.
- PFD: Type 3 or Type 5 (fit properly and in good condition) with whistle and knife
- Helmet: whitewater helmet
- Footwear: hard-soled wetsuit booties or good shoes for walking in the river and on the banks with wool or neoprene socks
- Thermal Protection:
- Drysuit or wetsuit
- Base layers and insulation – wool or synthetic materials (fleece, polyester, neoprene, etc.) to wear with your wetsuit or drysuit
- Hat
- Extra warm clothes
- Snacks, water, and lunch
- Sunscreen
- Optional:
- Neoprene gloves
- Sunglasses or prescription glasses with strap
- Personal rescue gear (optional but it is good to practice with your own gear!)
Inquire about our Swiftwater Rescue Courses