ACA ACA Rescue Techniques & Swift Water

Question 1

What is the ACA-recommended defensive swimming position in moving water?

Accepted Answer

On your back, feet downstream, toes up, arms out for steering

Answer

The ACA defensive swim position is on your back with feet downstream and toes at the surface to fend off rocks, while using arms to steer toward safety.

Question 2

What is the correct technique for throwing a throw bag to a swimmer in distress?

Accepted Answer

Throw the bag slightly past or to the swimmer, calling out a warning, so they can grab the rope

Answer

The thrower should aim slightly past the swimmer and call out a warning so the swimmer can grab the trailing rope as it sweeps past them.

Question 3

What is a 'live bait' rescue technique in ACA swift water instruction?

Accepted Answer

A rescuer swims out attached to a rope to reach a swimmer unable to self-rescue

Answer

In a live bait rescue, a rescuer wears a PFD and attaches to a safety rope, then enters the water to physically reach a swimmer who cannot self-rescue.

Question 4

According to ACA rescue priority, what is the FIRST option a rescuer should consider?

Accepted Answer

Reach: extend a paddle, rope, or arm from shore without entering the water

Answer

The ACA rescue priority hierarchy begins with Reach — extending something from shore without rescuer contact with the water, minimizing risk to the rescuer.

Question 5

What is 'boat-based rescue' in ACA swift water instruction?

Accepted Answer

Using a kayak or canoe to approach and assist a swimmer in moving water

Answer

Boat-based rescue involves paddling a kayak or canoe to a swimmer's position in moving water to provide assistance, often by having the swimmer hold onto the stern or bow.

(ACA) American Canoe Association Instructor Certification Practice Test

(ACA) American Canoe Association Instructor Certification Practice Test

ACA ACA Rescue Techniques & Swift Water