Rescues can occur at any time. You may need to perform a rescue without equipment. SLS does not recommend performing rescues without equipment as they significantly increase the risk to you and the victim. Use the following techniques if you must perform a rescue without equipment.
Hip carry
The hip carry method can be used for taking a conscious or unconscious victim back to shallow water.
- Approach the victim while monitoring their position and progress.
- Reassure the victim.
- Adopt a defensive position at a safe distance.
- Explain to the victim how you will proceed with the rescue.
- Move behind the victim and put your preferred arm over the victim’s corresponding shoulder, across the chest and under the armpit, clamping the victim to your body.
- Proceed towards the shore using a sidestroke, with your hip close to the small of the victim’s back.
Note:
- If the victim starts to struggle, obtain a firmer hold by using your arm to clamp their shoulder against your chest, and reassure them.
- Use release and escape techniques if you feel you are in danger at any point during the rescue.
Wrist tow
The wrist tow method can be used when a conscious victim is able to maintain buoyancy.
- Approach the victim while monitoring their position and progress.
- Reassure the victim.
- Adopt a defensive position at a safe distance.
- Explain to the victim how you will proceed with the rescue.
- Instruct the victim to float on their back with one arm extended straight towards you.
- Grip the victim’s extended arm at the back of the hand/wrist and use a sidestroke.
- Ask the victim to grip your arm the same way.
- Ask the victim to assist by kicking.