Swift Water Rescue

The Redwoods and Rivers Swiftwater Rescue program teaches recognition and avoidance of common river hazards, execution of self-rescue techniques, and rescue for paddlers in distress. During the training, emphasis is placed on personal safety and simple, commonly used river rescue skills. Strategies for dealing with hazards, such as strainers, entrapment and pins, are practiced. Scenarios are also staged to provide participants with practice with individual and group skills.


Our program is taught by Redwoods and Rivers Guide Instructors using Rescue III International protocols. The Swiftwater Rescue for Rafting Guides certification is awarded to participants upon successful completion of the training.