Swiftwater Rescue 2-Day Course Led By Guest Instructor Mike Mather

The one-day Swiftwater Rescue course is designed for paddlers who want to be prepared for river rescue situations. Based on a curriculum developed by the American Canoe Association, this course teaches both river rescue techniques and preventative river-running strategies to reduce risks for all river users. A special feature of this course is the presence of Mike Mather, who brings years of experience to share insights and practical tips. Participants gain hands-on skills that help them respond effectively to emergencies and navigate challenging whitewater conditions safely.

The course emphasizes judgment, risk management, and rescue techniques that can be performed with minimal equipment. Students participate in a mix of classroom instruction, shoreline demonstrations, and in-water practice, allowing them to experience realistic river scenarios while building confidence and competence. This course is ideal for paddlers with some whitewater experience who want to strengthen their skills in swiftwater rescue, team response, and emergency preparedness. By the end of the day, participants leave with practical knowledge, improved decision-making abilities, and enhanced safety skills for all types of river craft.