SURFACE WATER RESCUE

Foundational water rescue training focused on safe, effective operations in still water environments using low-risk techniques and disciplined scene management.

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COURSE OVERVIEW

Prepare responders to perform and direct technical rescues involving victims afloat on still or slow-moving water (less than 1 knot). Students develop proficiency in hazard recognition, equipment selection, and advanced rescue techniques using shore-based, go-based, and boat-supported operations, including victim access, packaging, and removal. The program aligns with NFPA 1006 Chapter 16 (Surface Water Rescue, 2017 Edition) and emphasizes risk-based decision-making, proper PPE use, and controlled operational practices.

This course does not meet all watercraft rescue requirements outlined in NFPA 1006 Chapter 21, and additional training may be required per **NFPA 1670 based on agency responsibilities.

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PROGRAM OPTIONS

SURFACE WATER AWARENESS

Introduces responders to the hazards, risks, and basic considerations of surface water incidents. The program focuses on scene recognition, risk assessment, and implementing safe, defensive actions while supporting trained rescue personnel.

SURFACE WATER OPERATIONS

Prepares responders to perform shore-based and support rescue functions in still or slow-moving water environments. The program emphasizes risk-based decision-making, PPE use, and low-risk techniques such as reach, throw, and coordinated team operations.

SURFACE WATER TECHNICIAN

Trains responders to perform advanced rescue operations, including direct contact rescues and the use of boats as rescue platforms. The program focuses on hazard management, victim access and removal, and operating within structured, high-risk rescue environments.

SURFACE WATER REFRESHER

Reinforces core skills and operational knowledge required for safe and effective surface water rescue response. The program focuses on reviewing rescue techniques, PPE use, and hazard recognition while rebuilding proficiency through hands-on evolutions.

NFPA 1670 GUIDELINES

NFPA 1670 Surface Water Operations Level Guidelines state that those operating on or operating a boat need additional training not included in this course.

This program IS NOT designed to meet all of the Job performance requirements for Operations and Technician Level Rescuers as defined in NFPA 1006 Chapter 21 Watercraft Rescue 2017 Edition. The Watercraft Rescue standard includes additional Swiftwater requirements that are not addressed in this course.

16.3.3* Any member of the organization who could be expected to perform functions as a crewmember on a watercraft shall be provided training to meet the job performance requirements for operations-level watercraft operations as defined in NFPA 1006 for the types of watercraft used by the agency under conditions representative of those typically encountered in the work environment.

16.3.4* Any member of the organization who could be expected to perform functions as the operator of a watercraft shall be provided training to meet the job performance requirements for technician-level watercraft operations as defined in NFPA 1006 for the types of watercraft used by the agency under conditions representative of those typically encountered in the work environment.

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All Hands Fire Training works with departments to deliver customized, hands-on training programs designed to meet your staffing, equipment, and operational needs. Our instructors provide realistic, experience-driven training that builds confidence, enhances decision-making, and improves performance on the fireground.

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