Rescue & Instructor Training
Welcome to our comprehensive kayak rescue and instructor training page — designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge for safe and confident paddling. At Calleva River School safety and skill development take center stage. At Calleva we believe in regular rescue training because it is fun, because you might need it someday and because, when that day comes, we want you to be able to respond confidently and safely.
Our professional development program is designed to develop paddlers in canoe and kayak disciplines, interested in working as professional instructors or to develop their kayak teaching techniques. This instructor training course leads to certification as an instructor by the American Canoe Association; the ACA.
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Safety & Rescue
We offer the 2 day Swiftwater Rescue as well as our Rescue Ready program. Rescue Ready expands the traditional Swiftwater Rescue curriculum into 4 hour modules to continue your training and repeat important skills until you feel confident.
What is Rescue Ready?
Developed at Calleva, Rescue Ready was designed to slow down and focus on every detail. Our program is spread out over 36 hours to allow you to absorb and master each section. The 2 day Swiftwater Rescue usually packs all this information into 16 hours making it harder to digest everything. With Rescue Ready, if you don’t understand a specific concept you can retake that course not the whole program.
Rescue Ready Swiftwater Rescue Series
RR1-5 plus scenarios meets Requirement for Calleva Trips on Class IV
RR 1 Basics of Swift Water Rescue
RR2 Rescue Plan, Wading
RR3 Throw Ropes
RR4 Boat Based Rescues
RR5 Basics of Rigging
Beginner Rescue Scenarios
*Prerequisite Levels 1-5
RR6 Foot Entrapment*
RR7 Tethered Swimming*
RR8 Advanced Swimming*
Intermediate Rescue Scenarios
RR9 Night Rescue** Must have taken 1-8
RR10 Advanced Cinches **Must have taken 1-6
RR11 Advanced Rigging **Must have taken 1-5
RR12 Advanced Rigging 2 **Must have taken 1-5
Advanced Scenarios
Enroll in 4 modules every 2 years to stay current!
Instructor Training
Whether you’re a recreational kayaker looking to enhance your self-rescue abilities or an aspiring instructor seeking professional development, we’ve got you covered. Our team of seasoned kayaking experts is dedicated to providing top-notch training that emphasizes safety, practical techniques, and hands-on experience. With a focus on both individual rescues and group leadership, our courses will empower you to handle challenging situations with composure and competence.
Join us on this transformative journey, as we help you become a proficient kayaker and a skilled instructor, ready to tackle any aquatic adventure that comes your way. Dive into the world of kayak rescue and instruction with us, and become a proficient and confident leader on the water!
2026 Dates: May 26 – 30 or August 22, 23, 28, 29, & 30
L3 Update May 27 & 28 or August 27 & 28
L4 Update May 28 & 29 or August 28 & 29
