The Rescue Swimmer
in the Water Rescue Service

Rescue swimmers in the water rescue service (RS_WRD) have expanded knowledge and skills in water rescue and medicine beyond the DRSA Silver. They can thus be deployed in certain areas of the Water Rescue service. Further qualification as a water rescuer should be pursued by everyone. A maximum of 16 persons should participate in a course.

Participation Requirements:

- Minimum age 15 years
- DRSA Silver
- DRK Snorkelling Badge
- Passed entrance test
- Confident mastery of common nautical knots

Course Content and Duration:

A complete course comprises at least 16 teaching units (UE) plus examination time. At least 4 UE are dedicated to basic CPR with AED training. Content includes: operational basics, safety and documentation; teamwork and operational tactics; CPR training with emergency equipment; training with regional rescue equipment and PPE; rescue, search and initial treatment in drowning incidents; principles of extended first aid; basic and psychosocial emergency aftercare.

Teaching Staff

The course is led by a rescue swimming instructor or water rescuer instructor.

Entrance Test

The entrance test consists of: verification of prerequisites; a combined exercise (25m approach swim, retrieve 5kg ring, release grip, 25m tow partner, bring to shore, CPR); handling of rescue buoy/belt.

Examination

The examination consists of: AED certification in theory and practice; written test of 10 questions (at least two-thirds must be correct); combined practical exercise with AED.

Validity

The rescue swimmer in WRD qualification is valid indefinitely. Regular refresher training is recommended. AED recertification follows BRK state association guidelines.