Frequently Asked Questions
Course Information
Thank for your interest in attending the Indiana River Rescue School. This page is designed to answer some of the more frequent questions we encounter, as well as help prepare you for your time spent with us. If you have any further questions please feel free to reach out to us via phone or email.
FAQ
What is provided?
• Lunch: Lunch will be provided at no additional cost Monday – Thursday.
• Swiftwater Helmets: Swiftwater helmets are provided for those who do not bring their own. Personal helmets are acceptable upon inspection.
• PFD: Type 5 PFDs are provided for those who do not bring their own. Personal PFDs are acceptable upon inspection.
• A Great Learning Environment!
What should I bring?
• Drysuit / Wetsuit: Either is acceptable. Drysuits are recommended.
• PFD: Type 5 PFD is required and provided if needed.
• Whistle: Rescue whistles are not required but recommended.
• Helmet: Swiftwater helmet is required and provided if needed.
• Footwear: Closed Toe Shoes are required. This can be anywhere from a commercially made swiftwater rescue shoes down to a pair of old athletic shoes you don’t mind being ruined by the end of the week.
• Gloves: Gloves are required, mostly for handling rope during water operations. We recommend a pair of basic mechanics gloves you do not mind possibly ruining by the end of the week. A 2nd pair of nicer water rescue gloves would be recommended for thermal and abrasion protection while swimming.
• Extra clothing: There may be incidents where you inadvertently get your dry clothes wet. Ie. Fail to zip your drysuit.
• Poor weather gear: Depending on the time of year, poor weather could be factor. We will train in all weather conditions except for when lightning is in the area. Rain gear for times when you will not be in your drysuit is encouraged. Layers including wool socks for early spring courses is also encouraged.
• Snacks: Lunch and hydration stations are provided. However, it is recommended to bring snacks to keep on your person for use throughout the day.
*Personal rescue accessories (knives, personal throwbags, carabiners, lights, strobes) are not recommended, as there is a high likelyhood of those items being lost or damaged during training
What restaurants are around?
South Bend is a culturally diverse and prominent restaurant scene. There are several local eateries and also the staple fast food restaurants. You will get the information you need in your welcome packet. Average price for a meal is ~ $10 – $15
What will I learn while at your school?
Do you have hotels that are blocked off or offer discounts?
You will receive an email with a list of recommended hotels
What classes are offered?
We currently offer a 5-day Operations / Technician Swiftwater Rescue Course based on NFPA 1006 & 1670 standards.
What does the class cost and how do I pay?
The costs of this course is $800
Course payment is generally through purchase order agreement. If you have any other questions contact us on our contact page.
How many classes do you have each year?
We have 5-6 classes each Spring Season.