Swiftwater Rescue Technician Unit 1 (SRT1)

The SRT1 course provides rescuers with the fundamentals of survival in moving water and is recommended for anyone who may be called upon to effect in-water rescues. Students gain knowledge in hydrology and river classifications, size-up, site control and scene management. Practical skills include self-rescue, swiftwater swimming and the fundamentals of shore, boat and in-water rescues. Additionally students are introduced to the basics of boat handling and the fundamentals of rope rescue including mechanical advantage and anchor systems.

The SRT1 class also provides the foundation of the Swiftwater Rescue Technician training level. Swiftwater Rescue Technician is a mandatory training level for inclusion on a Federal Emergency Management Agency Swiftwater/Flood Search and Rescue Team at all Team levels.

Standard: NFPA 1670 Operations (Water)
Prerequisites: Basic swimming ability
Equipment: Water equipment
• full wetsuit or drysuit
• lightweight water or kayak helmet
• US Coast Guard Approved Type III or V life jacket/PFD
• thick-soled water booties or tennis shoes
• gloves