The knots and bolts of swift water rescue

Students practice using rescue devices like the throw rope being used here to save a "victim."

A towed victim swim is used show the difficulties in getting a victim to shore in a current.

A rescuer is belayed on rope in a "live bait tethered rescue" as Ryan Kenneda jumps in to rescue a simulated victim.

Students pair up to practice a two-man shallow water crossing technique before another exercise.

A combination of students, most of whom are associated with local fire departments, start out the class with indoor training, making sure they're comfortable with knots before hitting the river.