Almost all whitewater kayakers humbly admit “we’re all between swims.” Rafters claim they come in two types: those who have flipped, and those who will. If you travel Alaska’s rivers by canoe, kayak, raft, or packraft you have probably swamped a boat, had a close call, or you know someone who has. When you find yourself immersed in the icy water of a remote river with a boat pinned on a log jam, paddles and gear floating downstream, it is a little late to be asking what you or your companions have done to prepare for the circumstances.
If you have never taken a Swiftwater Rescue course, now is a good time to consider committing a weekend of your paddling season to developing skills and knowledge that can make the difference between a close call and tragedy on the river. Tim Kelahan of the Rescue Company has announced a schedule of Swiftwater rescue classes around Alaska this coming season. These intensive three-day courses mix classroom instruction with hands-on skill practice on and in the water. Classes are structured to address the needs of private boaters, river guides, and rescue professionals alike.
Here is the proposed schedule of classes in Alaska: (SRT/WRT= Swiftwater Rescue Technician/Whitewater Rescue Technician) – Contact Tim Kelehan – therescuecompany@yahoo.com for more information.
| Date | Class / Event | Location | River | Instructors |
| May 12,13,14 | SRT/ WRT NFPA | Kenai, Alaska | Kenai | Kelahan |
| May 17,18,19 | SRT/ WRT | Denali, Alaska | Nenana | Kelahan |
| May 21,22,23 | SRT/ WRT | Talkeetna, Alaska | Talkeetna | Kelahan |
| May 25,26 | Rope or Swiftwater or Boat | Salcha, Alaska | Chena/ Salcha/ |
Kelahan |
| May 28,29,30 | SRT /WRT | Chickaloon, Alaska | Matanuska | Kelahan |
Im interested in the SRT classes in denali. What is required to take part?
The SRT classes are offered by The Rescue Company. You can contact Tim Kelehan at therescuecompany@yahoo.com for registration details and course costs. Generally you need to provide your own drysuit, helmet, and PFD.
Are you offering any classes in the Kenai Peninsula area this summer? Thanks so much!
Krystal
Hi Krystal, the Fairbanks Paddlers doesn’t offer these classes. Check with the Rescue Company. They have a class near Hope on Six-Mile. Also, you might see what is being offered by Alaska Kayak Academy in Wasilla, and by Alaska Kayak School in Homer.