TECHNICAL RESCUE CLASSES
RIVER RESCUE
The River Rescue is designed for private boaters. This is an excellent course if you want an introduction to river rescue. We work on developing the skills needed for river runners!
The River Rescue is a course designed for boaters. We work on developing the skills needed for river runners! This course is the best fit for people that run rivers and have some ability to read water. While we practice rescue techniques, the primary focus of this course is prevention of river issues by thinking and talking through river emergencies. The course has sections that focus on rafting, fishing, kayaking and paddleboarding. Make sure to let your instructor know your preferred craft so they can tailor the course to your needs. The course includes an ACA L4 participation card and the Swift Water Rescue workbook.
Course Length: 2 Days
- Class begins at 9:00am sharp unless notified otherwise. There will be time for breaks, most people prefer to bring a lunch.
Course Price: $285
Course Dates:
- June 11-12
- June 16-17
- Private Classes Available
Skills covered in the River Rescuer:
- Hydrology and Reading Water
- Medical Considerations
- Evacuation Considerations
- Safety Talks
- Aggressive Swimming Techniques
- Defensive Swimming Techniques
- Strainer Swim and Self Rescue
- Throwbag Training
- Shallow Water Crossings
- Foot Entrapments
- Body Entrapments
- Contact Rescues
- Live Bait Rescues
- Raft Flip Drills
- Kayak Pins
- Wrapped Boats
- Rope Skills
- Rope Strengths & Construction
- Anchor Building
- Knots & Hitches
- Mechanical Advantage
- Tension Diagonal
What to Bring:
Required Equipment:
- Personal Flotation Device
- Drysuit or Wetsuit
- Helmet
- Sturdy Footwear
- Neoprene Gloves
Suggested Equipment:
- Locking Carabiner
- Throwbag (so you can practice with what you will use)
- River Knife
- Whistle
Great Northern has rental equipment available. Call to reserve.
ADVANCED RIVER RESCUE
The Advanced River Rescue is a course designed for professional river guides. The scenarios practiced and discussed in this class are pulled directly from common river issues that professional boaters encounter.
The Advanced River Rescue is designed for professional river guides or those interested in guiding. The scenarios practiced and discussed in this class are pulled directly from common river issues that guides encounter. The primary focus of the course is prevention and developing situational awareness that will help to minimize risks and shorten response times. The Advanced River Rescue also has a night time search component. The course includes an ACA participation card, Swiftwater Rescue workbook, and a form documenting the participants performed skills and qualifications. (Great to have if you are intending to apply to work with an outfitter)
Course Length: 3 Days
- Class begins at 9:00am sharp unless notified otherwise. There will be time for breaks, most people prefer to bring a lunch.
Course Price: $335
Course Dates:
- June 13-14
Skills covered in the Advanced River Rescue:
- Hydrology and Reading Water
- Medical Considerations
- Evacuation Considerations
- Safety Talks
- Aggressive Swimming Techniques
- Defensive Swimming Techniques
- Strainer Swim and Self Rescue
- Throwbag Training
- Shallow Water Crossings
- Foot Entrapments
- Body Entrapments
- Contact Rescues
- Live Bait Rescues
- Raft Flip Drills
- Kayak Pins
- Wrapped Boats
- Rope Skills
- Rope Strengths & Construction
- Anchor Building
- Knots & Hitches
- Mechanical Advantage
- Tension Diagonal
- Searches and Communications
- Real Life Scenarios
- Night Operations*
What to Bring:
Required Equipment:
- Personal Flotation Device
- Drysuit or Wetsuit
- Helmet
- Sturdy Footwear
- Neoprene Gloves
Suggested Equipment:
- Locking Carabiner
- Throwbag (so you can practice with what you will use)
- River Knife
- Whistle
Great Northern has rental equipment available. Call to reserve.
COURSE CALENDAR
Find the class that you are looking for by navigating the Great Northern River School Google calendar.
PHOTOS & VIDEO
Take a look at past classes and find some inspiration to get you on the water.
