Kern Valley Search and Rescue
Swiftwater Rescue Team
Shore Based Rescuers
The basic operator on the Swiftwater Rescue Team is capable of supporting all operations and performing rescues from the shore. All members are trained in Self Rescue and Rope Systems. The emphasis of this rescue position is making the rescue without getting on or in the water. Reaching victims with poles or paddles are common tools of the trade. Throwing bags of rope to victims who find themselves in the water one of the most important life saving tools available to these rescuers.
Boat Teams
Kern Valley Search and Rescue has a variety of different style and size boats to meet the needs of any rescue situation The crews that man these boats have been trained to operate on the waters of the Kern River and are capable of navigating Class 3 waters as a minimum. Each crew is composed of a Boat Captain and a Rescue Swimmer. The Boat Captain is in charge of the boat and has to be qualified in the rescue position before becoming a Boat Captain. The Rescue Swimmer is able to operate from the boat during rescue operations or is able to follow a victim into the water to attempt an in water rescue.
Rescue Swimmer
The Rescue Swimmer program trains members to perform in water rescues. These operators may fulfill a Rapid Intervention role or may be a crewman on one of the boats during rescue operations. This job is the most dangerous job that our rescuers perform by placing themselves in the water and at the mercy of the Kern River. Members have been trained in self rescue and lifesaving techniques.
Kern Valley Search and Rescue has a variety of different style and size boats to meet the needs of any rescue situation The crews that man these boats have been trained to operate on the waters of the Kern River and are capable of navigating Class 3 waters as a minimum. Each crew is composed of a Boat Captain and a Rescue Swimmer. The Boat Captain is in charge of the boat and has to be qualified in the rescue position before becoming a Boat Captain. The Rescue Swimmer is able to operate from the boat during rescue operations or is able to follow a victim into the water to attempt an in water rescue.
Rescue Swimmer
The Rescue Swimmer program trains members to perform in water rescues. These operators may fulfill a Rapid Intervention role or may be a crewman on one of the boats during rescue operations. This job is the most dangerous job that our rescuers perform by placing themselves in the water and at the mercy of the Kern River. Members have been trained in self rescue and lifesaving techniques.
