Module
Water Rescue Equipment
Personal Flotation Devices and Helmets
- A PFD (personal flotation device) increases flotation, protects against hits, and staves off hypothermia.
- A life jacket increases flotation and turns an unconscious swimmer face out of the water — unlike a PFD.
- No helmet type ensures full head protection in flowing water.
- The standard for whitewater sports helmets is EN1385.
- A pole is NOT an obligatory part of personal equipment (life vest, helmet, and whistle are).
Ropes and Throwbag
- Water rescue ropes must be floating, brightly colored, and 7 to 10 mm in diameter.
- Technical rescue ropes are static and have larger diameters of 10–13 mm.
- The correct throwbag rope length is a length that you are able to throw effectively — no fixed value applies.
- A rafting guide must store the throw bag attached to a waist belt when on the river.
Carabiners and Accessories
- A carabiner bears its greatest load along its major axis.
- Non-locking carabiners are hazardous because you may become accidentally clipped to the raft without noticing.
- Prusik cords and webbings are used for anchoring and rope techniques.
- Whistles are used for attracting attention and communication during a rescue operation.
Mandatory Guide / Rescuer Kit
- A guide's or white-water rescuer's mandatory personal equipment is: PFD with quick release belt, helmet, 4 HMS carabiners, 3 high efficiency pulleys, 2 prusik loops, flip line, throw bag, knife, whistle, clothes suitable for the water and air temperature, and appropriate footwear.