Boat-Based Rescue

  • Learn how to use your boat to assist swimmers, protect yourself, and collect gear.

    This class is an optional supplement to a regular Swiftwater Rescue Class. Anyone who signs up for that class will get a significant discount on this class but anyone can take this class even if you’ve taken a full rescue class elsewhere.

    There are two varieties of this class: a kayak/packraft version for small craft and a rafters version for large boats. Please be sure to sign up for the appropriate class.

    Times: 5:30pm - sunset on Mondays or Tuesdays

    Location: Golden Whitewater Park in Golden, CO

    Cost: $125 per person

  • You need to be comfortable with your own skills before you can try to assist others. All students must feel comfortable performing difficult maneuvers in their craft of choice in class 2+ whitewater.

    We also recommend (but don’t require) that all students take a full two-day swiftwater rescue skills class before this class.

    • Assisting swimmers

    • Pushing boats

    • Tether systems

    • Unconscious boater rescue (hand of god)

    • Partner rescues (“T” or “Bow” rescues)

    • Wet re-entries

    • Assisting a swimmer into a raft

    • Climbing into a raft without assistance

    • Righting rafts with flip lines in deep water

    • Righting rafts on shore with ropes