Local canoeists complete rescue training
Canoeists bring safety tips back to Florida Lake.
Unlike running and cycling where the danger comes unexpectedly, canoeists can anticipate possible troublesome situations.
Tree blockages on the river, blocked or collapsed bridges, weirs at high water and waterfalls with a strong current over the edge are possible danger zones.
The Gauteng Canoe Union (GCU) arranges regular courses for paddlers to learn about rescue techniques – preferably a preventative technique – for situations that may arise, to ensure the safety of river users.
Chris van der Merwe and Kevin Hunt of the Florida Lake Canoe Club were among the new learners at the Swift water rescue course on the weekend of 23 and 24 November.
Learning about throwing ropes to stranded paddlers who have lost their boats and to help catch paddlers before they can be washed over a waterfall, wading techniques for groups of rescuers to walk safely into deep turbulent water in order to help a trapped persons or boats are skills that were taught during the course
The two-day course was presented in Parys and was hosted by White Water Training.
