Trapped Paddler Rescue ("Hand of God.")

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Key Points

The Trapped Paddler rescue is a variation of the Scoop rescue, to be used with a paddler who has not exited the boat but who is unable to execute an Eskimo rescue. Another name for this rescue is the "Hand of God." This is the rescue to use with an unconscious or incapacitated paddler. We all hope that we never have to use this rescue, but it is important to practice it, in view of the potential seriousness of situations in which it would be appropriate.

This rescue is essentially the Scoop rescue, with a few variations. First, don't waste time maneuvering bow to bow. As you approach the capsized boat, lean out and grab the capsized hull firmly. Don't waste time by overshooting the boat! Reach across the middle of the hull and grab the gunwale on the far side. Reach as far as you must: the capsized boat will support you. Now pull the far side toward you as you simultaneously push the near side of the capsized boat down and away. When the capsized paddler's body is on the surface, grab the PFD and push the paddler's body back onto the rear deck. Now continue rotating the capsized boat to an upright position. Stabilize the boat as you attend to the paddler. If this rescue is necessary, then it is likely that the paddler will need additional help. One person should be assigned to stabilize the boat, while someone else attends to the paddler's needs.