Swift Water Rescue Technician

Course Overview:

Swift Water Rescue Technician course certifies trainees to perform a water-based rescue.

Learning Objectives & Specific Outcomes:

Swift Water Rescue Technician is an Emergency Services Training course. Trainees develop an advanced understanding of swift water hazards and rescue techniques from the “hot zone” (on moving water). This course is aimed at those who may be called on to perform a water-based rescue.

Topics Include:

The 3-day Swift Water Rescue Technician Course combines classroom experience with hands-on training. In-class, participants review relevant provincial and federal swift water regulations, rescue equipment and water dynamics, before learning about water-based rescue procedures, including the difference between swimming rescues and boat rescues. The course also covers complex rescue situations, including performing night rescues, rescuing individuals from vehicles and overturned boats, rescuing trapped victims, and much more.

In the hands-on portion, participants perform site assessments, review river signals and communication, practice swimming rescues and shallow-water crossings, and perform a swift water rescue scenario. Trainees must pass a written exam and showcase their competence in the subject in hands-on practicum to receive their certificate.