ASAR Swiftwater Technician Training
Swiftwater Animal Rescue Training
ASAR Swiftwater is a 3-day ASAR Technician level course designed to apply self rescue, team rescue, and animal rescue field skills in a moving water environment. SRT-1 human rescue skills are adapted to animal rescue scenarios to provide a "tool-kit" of rescue options in a disaster scenario. This training is provided through both hands-on and classroom instruction.
This swiftwater animal rescue training class blends NFPA 1670 operational skills for swiftwater rescue and technical animal rescue for application in a flood response. ASAR Swiftwater will also meet the criteria for Animal Search and Rescue (ASAR) team training guidelines referenced in National Alliance of State Animal and Agricultural Emergency Programs (NASAAEP) ASAR best practice work group white paper; and the Southern Agriculture and Animal Disaster Response Alliance (SAADRA) ASAR Resource Typing.
*This class can be combined with the ASAR Floodwater/Boat Operations training to be a 4-day training.
*Customized training available for USAR teams with credentialed SRT-A Technicians to meet FEMA 509 Resource Typing for Swiftwater Animal Rescue Specialist.
Course Topics
- Lecture - Introduction to swiftwater response skills
- Water safety/PPE/Self Rescue/Team rescue
- Small animal rescue field practicals
- Rescue scenarios
- Introduction to ropes / knots / anchors / systems used in water rescue
- Large animal application discussion and problem solving
- Plus much more!
Participant Requirements
Have the ability to swim well unassisted
Class V rescue PFD with quick release strap
Water rescue drysuit (available for rent through ASAR)
Water rescue helmet
Water draining footwear
Rope gloves / water rescue gloves (recommended)
Whistle (optional)
Requirements to Host This Training Course
Classroom with A/V equipment and speakers if possible, otherwise please notify the instructor prior to class
Moving water options – either natural water or water park
Outdoor working area should have access to restroom facilities if possible
Pop-up tents for shade, if needed, during outside practical (optional, but preferred)