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Key Points
The 'T' or "X" Rescue is a rescue whereby a capsized kayak is emptied and the rescue completed by only one paddler. Because of this, it is ideal for instructors and leaders who wish to get people out of the water quickly. This rescue is also of practical use for those who paddle with only one companion.

1.Prevent both pairs of paddles from floating away. This can be done with a paddle leash, or the person in the water can tuck the paddles between his legs. The swimmer's hands are now free to hold on firmly to the rescuer's cockpit coaming and give stability during the initial lift.

2.The rescuer grasps the bow of the upturned kayak and lifts quickly in order to prevent any further water from entering through the cockpit opening. The upturned boat is then pulled across until its cockpit is resting on the foredeck of the rescue craft. Beware - this rescue is a spray-skirt shredder. (See Photos)

3.The rescuer see-saws the upturned boat until all the water has drained out. Assistance may be given by the person in the water who can pull down on the bow toggle. To reach that position, the swimmer should move hand-overhand along the foredeck of the upturned boat, holding on to the deck lines. In strong winds, even losing a grip on the boats for a second can allow them to be blown away faster than anyone can swim after them. In the event of this unpleasant situation, the kayak would have to be emptied by the rescuer alone and then towed in the upright position back to the swimmer. This is assuming that the rescuer had maintained visual contact with the person in the water.

If there is too much water in the capsized boat, its excessive weight could crack one or both of the decks during the see-saw operation. It would be more prudent to remove the worst of the water by the Curl before attempting the Rescue

The 'T' Rescue is where the rescuer lifts the front of the kayak and built-in bouyancy in the stern means that it does not have to be see-sawed across the cockpit area. (Hence the letter "T")

'T' Rescue

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