Packraft-Specific Swiftwater Rescue Training Missoula, MT May 3 – 5, 2024
COURSE DETAILS
A leader in the packraft industry, SSI has been offering packraft-specific swiftwater rescue training for over a decade. We blend river rescue and paddling fundamentals in this course. Learning how to use your craft as a functional rescue tool gives you an added layer of response when you find yourself in difficult and remote river settings.
Space is limited to 12 students and will be taught by SSI lead instructor, Brian Chaffin. Class fills up fast, so register early!
ONLINE COMPONENT: Yes – required.
COURSE FORMAT: 3-day field course with 2 hours of online training and three 8-hour in-field training days. Total class length: 26hrs.
WHEN: May 3 – 5, 2024. Note: This course will be ran as an overnight trip on the Blackfoot River.
WHERE: Missoula, MT
FIELD SITE: Blackfoot River
COURSE COSTS: $475
PREREQUISITES:
1. A desire to learn
2. Packraft, paddle, and all associated boating gear necessary to travel downstream
3. Proficient swimmer
4. Physically capable
5. All of the listed PPE
6. Meet all Essential Eligibility Criteria
GEAR FOR THIS COURSE:
The welcome packet details the gear you will need for this course. As an SSI student, you get access to student pricing in the SSI Gear Shop! Once you register you’ll have access to the shop through your SSI account.
ABOUT THIS COURSE:
The Packraft-Specific Swiftwater Rescue Training is based on the SSI PRO-I swiftwater course, incorporating packrafts. Learn essential techniques in limited resource wilderness settings, utilizing packrafts for rescue or travel. Ideal for professionals using packrafts for downriver travel, gear access, or personnel retrieval. Tailored for commercial packraft guides, rangers, border patrol, and special operations teams in remote areas. Recreational enthusiasts welcome.
Topics cover equipment, self-rescue, boat control, hydrology, throw ropes, entrapment, safety boats, knots, anchors, and rope systems. While efforts are made to cover each topic, water levels, weather, and conditions may affect skill applicability.