British Canoe Union Canoe and
Paddling Safety Training and Skills Testing

Aim: To provide paddlers with necessary safety awareness to ensure the safety of themselves or others, and to provide paddlers with rescue skills to help themselves or others in difficulty

Pre-requisite for BCU Coach 2 Training

Manual Handling

General Theory and Skills

Safety features of paddling equipment
Water Hazards
Effects of weather on paddlers - hypothermia
Hand and Paddle Signals
How to handle a basic paddling emergency
Rescue Services/Assistance
Value of First Aid Certificate

LifeSaving

How to coach a swimmer in difficulty to shore
Use of a throw-bag
Use of a coiled line
Approaching struggling swimmer when paddling
Carry or tow a swimmer with your kayak

Canoe/Kayak Rescue Skills

Deep Water Rescues
Eskimo Rescues
Deep Water Rescues "dry" exit and re-entry
How to deal with an "all-in" rescue
Rescue a trapped paddler in an overturned Kayak