SRT PFD & Dry Suit Selection 3

Question 1

What is the primary thermal advantage of a dry suit over a wetsuit in swiftwater rescue?

Accepted Answer

Dry suits keep the wearer completely dry, preserving thermal protection

Answer

Dry suits seal water out entirely, allowing the wearer to use insulating undergarments that stay dry and retain thermal protection.

Question 2

Which dry suit entry style is considered the easiest for self-donning during rapid deployment scenarios?

Accepted Answer

Front diagonal zipper

Answer

Front diagonal zippers are easier to operate independently and are often preferred for solo donning in rapid-deployment settings.

Question 3

What type of dry suit seal is most susceptible to tearing but provides the best watertight fit?

Accepted Answer

Latex rubber seals

Answer

Latex rubber seals provide an excellent watertight fit but are more fragile and prone to tearing than neoprene or silicone alternatives.

Question 4

During a swiftwater rescue, a rescuer's dry suit inflates noticeably at the legs while swimming. What is the likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Air trapped from a partially opened exhaust valve or during a tumble

Answer

Air can migrate to the legs during tumbling in current, causing dangerous inversion; rescuers must purge suit air before entering water.

Question 5

Which undergarment material provides the best thermal insulation in a dry suit when accidentally flooded?

Accepted Answer

Synthetic pile or fleece (polyester)

Answer

Synthetic pile retains significant insulating value even when wet, unlike down or cotton which collapse when saturated.

(SRT) Swiftwater Rescue Technician Certification Practice Test