Since every river rescue situation is different, rescuers cannot predetermine specific strategy that they may use. Also, because a river setting is a dynamic environment with an ever-changing nature, rescuers must be flexible rather than dogmatic in their efforts.

Even though absolute, "never" and "always" are relative terms, with the current state of rescue knowledge and practice, there are some circumstances that require a NEVER or an ALWAYS - "absolutes" if you will. Following are a few examples which apply no matter the level of canoeing/kayaking experience or the difficulty of rivers being paddled.

Obviously, others might be added to this list.

- Never put your feet down on the riverbed and try to stand in fast moving river current. This could lead to a possible foot entrapment.

- Never knot a rope tightly around the body of a rescuer who may go in the current to help someone. The rescuer could be swept away and unable to get free.

- Never put all your eggs (rescue plan) in one basket; have a contingency plan in motion in case a certain action may not be successful. Once you make contact with any victim, never lose him/her. Be prepared to do your best to carry all the way through with the rescue effort.

- Always wear your PFD. Not only does it provide flotation, but it protects the torso.

- Always protect yourself and your group. Carefully assess the risk involved in performing any rescue. Making additional victims only compounds problems.

- Always have downstream back-up in place with any rescue effort, as well as upstream spotters if lines are stretched across the main channel. This will give oncoming boaters the opportunity to stop safely.

- Always be PRO-ACTIVE. Avoid getting into trouble in the first place. A pro-active attitude among experienced river paddlers is a primary factor that has helped produce a safety ethic in river paddling that is a model for other sports to emulate.

Sign up for one of the ACA Swift Water Rescue workshops held in your area and enhance your rescue capability. Will you benefit by knowing proven rescue strategies? Always. Will you regret spending time and money for such a weekend of practice and learning? Never. Will the workshop broaden your safety awareness and cause you to be a more confident paddler? Absolutely!

- From "The Arkansas Paddler", newsletter of the Arkansas

Canoe Club.

by Jim Simmons & James Canon

The Eddy Line, July 2003

Comments

Name *
Email (For verification & Replies)
Code   
ChronoComments by Joomla Professional Solutions

Submit Comment

Show/Hide Comment form