White Water Safety and Rescue Training

White Water Safety and Rescue. A paddler performing a rescue to another stuck in white water.

The British Canoeing Awarding Body White Water Safety and Rescue Training is designed for all paddlers operating in the white water environment. It aims to teach simple and practical safety and rescue skills that can be applied appropriately to a moderate white water environment.

White Water Safety and Rescue Training Overview

Minimum age

There is no age restriction.  Where providers choose to allow participants under the age of 18 to attend the course, appropriate safeguarding measures must be implemented and due attention paid to the enhanced legal responsibilities and potential risks.  The safety and welfare of those under the age of 18 is paramount.  If providers are unsure of their suitability to allow participants under the age of 18, please do not hesitate to consult British Canoeing.

Duration

10-hour minimum teaching time

Prerequisites

  • Confident in your ability to paddle on grade 2 water
  • Confident swimming in normal paddling clothing suitable for a moving water environment

A First Aid certificate is not a prerequisite. However, holding a First Aid certificate is strongly recommended for all paddlers.

Finding a White Water Safety and Rescue Training Course

To find a course in your area, contact your Delivery Centre by clicking the relevant logo at the bottom of this page.

Course Documents

To view the associated documents with this course, click here.

Core Skills Covered

Using a range of simulated scenarios, this Training course teaches safe paddling strategies. The majority of the content is delivered by hands-on, practical sessions supported by short riverside periods covering the theoretical content.

Certification

Attendance certificates are issued to successful candidates by their Delivery Centre following a recommendation from the course provider.