Surfski Rescue Techniques: Deck Rescue Variation

Surfski Rescue Technique: Deck Rescue Variation

In countries such as Australia, surfskis were originally used as tools for lifeguards to aid swimmers in distress, because the fast paddle-craft could quickly and efficiently reach swimmers in challenging ocean waters. Now, because surfskis have beeen modified to be faster, lighter racing crafts, they have been stripped of all their rescue and safety features, and as far as we can tell, there are no real standards for racers to follow to perform risk assessments and rescues.

We are posting ideas and techniques that we have practiced, and have worked for us. They are something to try, and a simple exercise in thinking 'outside the box.' But remember, when faced with a rescue situation, take the precautions you need to so you don't also become a victim!

When you're unsure, put your own safety first!

In our recent post, Surfski Rescue Techniques: Deck Rescue, we described how a surfskier can carry a swimmer on a 'ski's back deck. This is a classic, age-old rescue technique used extensively in whitewater and sea kayaking. It takes practice to get comfortable with, but can be effective in almost any conditions. If the surfski paddler is not yet comfortable with deck rescues, however, we have described a variation below.

Here, the swimmer is being towed by simply holding onto the stern of the surfski. The swimmer does not try to climb onto the stern, but keeps his body in the water, arms extended. In this position the swimmer can kick to assist the paddler, and because the swimmer is mostly in the water, the paddler should feel stable.

On my Epic V10, I have removed the cover plate for the rudder well. This makes for a decent place for a swimmer to hold onto the edge of the rudder well. It is important he does not try to hold onto the rudder shaft or spectra cord, and avoid trying to grab the rudder underneath the hull. This can damage the rudder system or cause the paddler to lose steerage.

Brandon's Vector has perimeter decklines mounted on the bow and stern decks, which the swimmer can easily grab onto for a tow.

Like every rescue method, there are positives and negatives to this towing technique:

POSITIVES:

The paddler may find it more stable;

The swimmer can help by kicking;

If you are worried about having the entire bodyweight of the person you are rescuing laying on your super lightweight, fragile, $4000 surfski deck... this keeps their weight in the water.

NEGATIVES:

Because the swimmer's entire body is in the water, forward speed is slower;

The onset of hypothermia is not reduced as it is when the swimmer is on the deck;

On many surfskis there is nowhere for a swimmer to hold onto, so this technique may not be possible, though attaching a handle is an option;

It may be impossible for hypothermic hands to hold onto a stern;

In bumpy seas, the tip of the stern could thump a weary swimmer in the face.

Even if the negatives seem to outweigh the positives, towing is a viable technique to add to your surfski skill set.

Try it! Try the deck rescue. Try a variation of your own. Remember, survival is not always about having the perfect tool or the right resource. It's much more about having "resourcefulness." When you're at work dreaming about being out paddling, spend some of that "visualization" time innovating new self-rescue and assisted-rescue techniques and methods, and try them the next time you're out paddling. If you learn something valuable, share it with us!


~In the Spirit of Compassion and Adventure~

Heather, Brandon and Baby HB