One way to improve our ability to avoid and manage whitewater accidents is to take a rescue class. The ACA SWR course lasts 16 to 20 hours and is physically challenging. It covers accident prevention and management, hazard recognition, self rescue, wading and swimming, basic and advanced rope rescue techniques, unpinning and extrication, entrapment rescues, and use of swiftwater rescue vests. Participants should be comfortable in class III water and be ready to spend lots of time in the water. Warm paddling clothes are essential because students will spend lots of time in the water.
Many people find an SWR class to be their coldest paddling experience.
The registration form is enclosed in this issue of the Paddler. When I receive your registration form, I will call or e-mail you within 3 days. If you don't hear from me within 10 days of mailing your registration, give me a call. No more than 16 students will be enrolled. If the class becomes overenrolled, a wait list will be established.