Whitewater Safety - Theory

Whitewater safety theory session, preparation for the weekend practical session, but anyone and everyone is welcome to come and learn/refresh. This will be some combination of group discussion, me rambling, analysing videos and stuffing around.

7pm - Meet upstairs for theory, BYO dinner and beer (or we'll get pizza).

8.30pm - Go to the pub, more beer.

9pm - Throwbag practice in the park. Inebriation simulates hypothermia.

Come prepared, know yo knots: Bowline, clove hitch, overhand, figure-8, munter, alpine butterfly, BYO show-and-tell knot.

If you've done 3-1 mechanical systems, practice it, because you're going to teach the class. Bonus points for 5-1.

Here's what's on the agenda:

- Swiftwater hydrology basics

- Hazard identification

- Risk assessment and group decision-making

- Low to high risk rescue options

- Personal and rescue equipment

- Whitewater swimming techniques and self-rescue

- Shallow-water crossings

- River knots

- Throwbag practice

- Mechanical advantage systems

We also might get to cover:

- Contact rescues

- Strainer simulations

- River access techniques

- Kayak self-rescue and partner rescue

Come along, bring a friend.