Ladder approach

The ladder approach is a lifesaving technique taught by The Royal Lifesaving Society, and is used to promote the safety of a rescuer during an aquatic rescue. The approach stresses using the least dangerous method possible during a rescue, and moving on to more dangerous options if it becomes necessary to do so. This method can help keep the rescuer as safe as possible throughout the rescue.

The Ladder Approach

• Talk - Try to talk to the victim to safety- see if they can help themselves.
• Throw - Throw an aid to the victim
• Reach - Reach with an aid to aid the victim
• Wade - Wade into the water and provide an aid to the victim
• Row - Row out to the victim and help them into your boat/provide them with an aid
• Swim - Swim out to the victim and provide them with an aid
• Tow - Swim out to the victim and tow them back to safety using an aid
• Carry - Using direct physical contact, remove the victim from danger

References

• The Canadian Lifesaving Society