Access is paramount to the success of many swiftwater rescue incidents, but getting there is often challenging and risky. Pin-point access to a location using tag lines from both banks can achieve access with more precision and control. With proper training, the 2-point tag line system is quick and simple method for getting there.  Take...

A few weeks ago I published a blog with a photo sequence showing students in an SRT/SRT-A Yosemite National Park course practicing entrapment rescue. Getting 'hands-on-stable' was the goal and they achieved it by shallow water crossing to the victim. They then stabilized, extracted, and transported him to shore. It was quick and simple.  Unfortunately,...

Strainers are another hazard that we as swiftwater responders have to deal with. Free-flowing and dam-controlled rivers alike share this obstacle, and in flood areas, strainers are predominant. Like entrapments, strainers pose significant risk to us and our crew. When developing a rescue plan for a strainer, here are a  few guidelines to consider:  ...