I often get asked on BCU 4 Star White Water training courses can you provide a kit list of things we'd need to carry when leading our groups in a moderate water environment. Rather than keep writing one I thought a quick blog on the subject would be more appropriate. So here's the list of kit we'll need:
- Throw line
- A 4m piece of tape
- 3 anodized HMS style karabiner (HMS screw gate)
- Rescue knife
- Emergency food (short and long burn energy sources) and warm drink - enough for everyone in the group. Everyone drinks water so I prefer a flask of hot water
- Whistle
- First aid kit
- Group shelter
- Set of split paddles
- Boat repair kit
- Mobile phone
- Spare clothing and hat
- Map and compass
- Multi-tool
- Headtorch
All of the above can be split between the group to distribute the weight.
It's also important to remember as a group leader to ensure that if people do carry a throwline, they know how to use it. Otherwise a bad situation could turn even worse with multiple lines in the water.
I hope this is of use! Happy Paddling!