Whitewater Safety

Note: The resources on this page are intended to support safe paddling practices. However, all paddlers are strongly encouraged to complete an accredited Swiftwater Rescue Course before attempting Class III or higher rivers.

 
 

Wet Exits and Swimming

Sometimes, you may need to “wet exit” your kayak by pulling your spray skirt. Once you’re out, you’ll be swimming. In still or slow-moving water, swimming is usually instinctual. But in swift water, there are two essential techniques to know:

Defensive swimming is used to safely ride out a rapid. Lie on your back with your feet pointed downstream, arms out to the side for balance, and keep your body as close to the surface as possible. This position allows you to see downstream, protect your head and feet, and avoid hazards.

If you need to reach the shore or avoid an obstacle quickly, switch to offensive swimming. Roll onto your stomach and swim aggressively using the front crawl (freestyle) technique, aiming directly for your target.

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The Hand of God

The Hand of God is a rescue technique used by experienced paddlers to assist someone who is upside down and unable to roll. When a paddler is struggling underwater, a rescuer can paddle alongside, reach over the capsized kayak, grab the cockpit rim, and roll the boat upright—paddler still inside.

If you're the one being rescued, help out by either tucking forward or leaning back. This lowers your center of gravity and makes it easier for the rescuer to bring you up smoothly and safely.

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The Eskimo Rescue

An Eskimo rescue—also known as a bow rescue or T-rescue—is a technique that allows an upside-down kayaker to right themselves without wet exiting. Like the Hand of God rescue, it requires another paddler to be nearby.

When underwater, the capsized paddler can signal for help by tapping the hull of their kayak. A nearby paddler approaches perpendicular to the capsized boat and offers the bow of their kayak. The submerged paddler can then grab the bow and use it as a brace to hip-snap upright.

⚠️ Important: The recovering paddler must rely on their hips, not their arms, to right the boat. Pulling up with your arms overhead can lead to a shoulder dislocation—a common and preventable injury.

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The 120° Rule

When paddling in cold weather, it’s critical to understand the risks. A good rule of thumb is the “120° Rule”: If the combined air and water temperature is 120°F or less, you should wear a wetsuit or drysuit.

Don’t be fooled by warm air—cold water is the real danger, especially in places like the Midwest where spring conditions can be deceptive. Sudden immersion in cold water without proper gear can lead to cold shock, cardiac arrest, or even death.

Wearing the right gear isn’t just about comfort—it’s about survival.

Throw Bag

A throw bag, or rescue bag, is a critical piece of safety gear used to rescue swimmers and unpin boats. It contains floating rope packed in a bag that can be thrown from shore or a stable platform like a raft.

Throw bags can also assist with portages by helping paddlers climb steep banks or move gear. Every paddler should carry an appropriate throw bag and know how to use it—it’s a simple tool that can save lives.

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Safety Kits

Safety kits—commonly referred to as pin kits—are crucial for paddlers tackling more technical or remote rivers. These kits are designed to help unpin boats, rescue trapped paddlers, and safely transport people or gear around hazardous rapids. A well-stocked kit typically includes a combination of locking carabiners, pulleys, prusik loops, tubular webbing, and a river knife.

The contents and complexity of a safety kit can vary depending on the river's difficulty and remoteness. All paddlers carrying this equipment should be trained in its proper use, as effective rescue depends as much on knowledge and practice as it does on gear.

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