Conditions make rescue difficult. Life-threatening obstructions, such as undercut rocks, may be present. Routes are often not readily apparently from the top of the rapid. Any Class IV rapid is serious business and requires the attention of everyone in theboat. Class V Extremely difficult and violent rapids with significant hazard to life in the event of a mishap.
Rescue is very difficult and there is significant hazard to life.
Waves may be huge, numerous, and breaking. Many Class V rapids are relatively long stretches of whitewater that require constant maneuvering. This puts a premium on teamwork between the crew and the Guide. Huge waves and hydraulics and many obstructions which can be life-threatening. Rescue conditions are very difficult.