The figure of eight on a bight is one of the most commonly used knots in swiftwater rescue. It is often used with throw bags for live bait,  tethered boats, and tag lines. The figure of 8 on a bight is relatively strong, secure when dressed, easy to tell when its tied properly, and easy to tie and untie. It meets the 4 components of a good knot. See the steps...

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 look as the training...

Swiftwater rescue  not only crosses international  borders, but language barriers too. I was fortunate enough to spend a few days last week working with 4 fire fighters  Thailand. These 4 gentlemen are here in the states training with Thai Fire training director Chatchay Thaikla. The group has several stops on their trans-continental sight-seeing training...

We braved the early winter weather that came through the Sierra Nevada this week, and had a great few days training on the Truckee River and the surrounding mountains.  We had two students all the way from Argentina joined by a few other folks from various parts of California’s fire rescue. Rain snow or shine, the rescue training was mighty fine. From...

I look forward to these classes very much. The PJs are an adventurous group of young men faced with active duty deployment Search and Rescue missions for the United States Air Force all over the world. I have the utmost respect for these guys and the job they do. This group was no exception. With 6-days to train we had ample time  to cover the course material....

We have been lucky enough to be a part of UC Davis' Beginners Guide Training (BGT) for the last 15 years and counting.