ACA Safety & Risk Management 2

Question 1

Which rescue technique is considered the FIRST choice when a paddler capsizes near shore?

Accepted Answer

Throw a rescue bag or rope

Answer

Throw before go — tossing a throw bag keeps the rescuer safe while reaching the victim quickly.

Question 2

What does the ACA recommend regarding alcohol consumption before paddling?

Accepted Answer

Avoid alcohol for at least 8 hours before paddling

Answer

ACA safety guidelines call for abstaining from alcohol at least 8 hours prior to paddling to maintain full judgment and coordination.

Question 3

A student's boat becomes pinned against a rock mid-river. What is the instructor's FIRST action?

Accepted Answer

Assess the situation from a safe vantage point before acting

Answer

Scene assessment before action prevents additional victims and allows the instructor to select the safest and most effective rescue method.

Question 4

Which condition most increases the risk of hypothermia during a paddling course?

Accepted Answer

Cold water combined with wet clothing and wind

Answer

Cold water conducts heat away from the body 25 times faster than air, and wind chill on wet clothing accelerates heat loss dramatically.

Question 5

What is the correct self-rescue position when swimming a rapid?

Accepted Answer

Face downstream, feet up, toes pointing downriver

Answer

The defensive swimming position — on your back, feet downstream and up — protects the swimmer's head and allows feet to deflect rocks.

(ACA) American Canoe Association Instructor Certification Practice Test