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Master White Water Safety: Essential Rescue Training in Llangollen's Rapids - Llangollen

Master White Water Safety: Essential Rescue Training in Llangollen's Rapids

Llangollenmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2 days

Fitness Level

Participants should be in good physical shape with basic paddling experience and the ability to swim confidently in moving water.

Overview

Elevate your paddling skills with an intensive two-day White Water Safety course in Llangollen, Wales. Learn critical rescue techniques and river safety from expert tutors amid the dynamic rapids of the River Dee.

Llangollen, Wales

White Water Safety

Ages 16+ • 2 days • Designed for all paddlers operating in a moderate to advanced white water

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About This Adventure

Join the White Water Safety and Rescue training course for an immersive two-day experience designed for paddlers in moderate to advanced white water. Gain essential safety skills, practice rescues, and learn from experienced tutors in a supportive environment. Perfect for enhancing your paddling confidence and preparing for leadership roles on the water.

Duration: 2 days

Using a range of simulated scenarios, this training course teaches safe paddling strategies. The majority of the content is delivered with practical sessions supported by short riverside periods covering the theoretical content.

The White Water Safety and Rescue (WWS&R) training course is designed for all paddlers operating in a moderate to advanced white water environment on either a SUP, in kayak or canoe. Attendance certificates are issued to successful candidates.

Highlights

  • You will develop an understanding of safety principles and protocols
  • You will explore and practice different ways to provide a rescue from a bank
  • The tutors will support you in practising personal rescue skills
  • You will develop techniques to rescue swimmers from the water
  • Our tutors will share with you top tips to recover both craft and paddles
  • You will know how to prioritise and structure rescues
  • You will explore solutions to appropriate methods of paddling rivers

Please note

  • You will need to bring your own appropriate equipment for this course, however if this is a problem do get in touch.

  • You must be a member of a Home Nation to take part in this course and receive your certificate. Become a member.

  • For detailed information on the course content, pre-requisites and structure please head to the British Canoeing resources page.

Included

  • Any water fees will be included in the price.

Important to Know

  • Minimum age 16+. Under 18's must book with a parent or guardian on the course too.
  • Prerequisites: Confident in your ability to paddle on grade 2 water
  • Confident swimming in normal paddling clothing suitable for a moving water environment
  • Holding a First Aid certificate is strongly recommended for all paddlers, however a First Aid certificate is not a prerequisite.

This award is all about keeping safe on white water rivers. Whether you are paddling with friends or attending the training course as preparation for a Leadership qualification, this practical course is packed with safe, practical solutions. It doesn't matter which craft you prefer to paddle: be it Kayak, Stand Up Paddleboard, Canoe or Sit on Top, this course provides appropriate skills for both safety and rescue on rivers.

The course is completely based around training, raising awareness with no assessment. Structured to support you, our experienced tutors will ensure you have plenty of time to practise, as well as understand how you can develop skills and experience after the course.

Meeting Point

Llangollen Sports Club, Tower Road, Llangollen, LL20 8TE

Adventure Tips

Check River Conditions

Always review recent river flow and weather reports before your session to ensure safety and preparedness.

Dress for Wet Conditions

Wear a wetsuit and helmet even if the weather is warm — river water stays cold year-round.

Practice Throw Bag Techniques

Master proper throw bag usage on shore before attempting in the river to build confidence and accuracy.

Bring a Change of Dry Clothes

After training sessions, having dry clothes ensures comfort and prevents chill.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Kingfisher
  • European otter

History

Llangollen has a strong heritage in outdoor water sports dating back to the 1950s, fostering a thriving paddling culture.

Conservation

The River Dee is monitored closely by local groups to ensure water quality and habitat preservation amid increasing recreational use.

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Adventure Hotspots in Llangollen

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Helmet

Essential

Protects you from impacts during river rescue scenarios and paddling.

River-ready Footwear

Essential

Secure shoes that stay on your feet and provide traction in wet conditions.

Wetsuit or Drysuit

Essential

spring specific

Throw Bag

Essential

A key rescue aid for practicing and performing rescues on swift water.