Swim Safety Training Event – hosted by Liverpool Canoe Club

Swim Safety Training Event – A Valuable Day of Learning

The club hosted a highly successful Swim Safety training event this weekend, with 16 participants in total, including 6 members from Liverpool Canoe Club.

The day began on our “beach”, where the group gathered before heading over to the yacht club for the classroom-based session. Martin from Swim Safety led the course, covering key theory and the fundamental principles behind keeping swimmers safe during open water events.

There were plenty of opportunities for group discussion, particularly around how weather and water conditions can impact both swimmers and the paddlers providing safety cover. Following a short coffee break, these discussions continued, helping to build a deeper understanding of how to deliver effective and safe support on the water.

We then returned to the beach for the practical element of the course. This focused on paddle skills and safe approaches to swimmers in difficulty, including how to manage swimmers alongside or holding onto kayaks. A range of realistic scenarios was practised, giving everyone the chance to develop confidence and refine technique.

After a well-earned lunch break, additional paddlers joined the group to refresh their existing certification. The afternoon session moved on to more serious scenarios, including how to assist an unconscious swimmer. Although rare, this is a critical skill—participants practised safely turning a swimmer face-up in the water to maintain a clear airway. Martin and Ralph from Swim Safety provided excellent (and convincing!) demonstrations as “casualties”.

The day concluded with an assessment, where all participants were required to paddle a set distance within a given time, reach an unconscious swimmer, turn them safely, and provide in-water support. Everyone successfully met the required standard—an excellent result.

Following a final debrief from Martin, boats and kit were packed away, and the group began to head home. A smaller group rounded off the day in style with a visit to the yacht club for a well-earned Sunday roast and a drink.

It was a thoroughly worthwhile and enjoyable day, greatly appreciated by all involved. Martin also extended his thanks to Liverpool Canoe Club for hosting and supporting the event, and there is strong interest in running the course again next year to continue building the excellent relationship between Swim Safety and the club.

Kevin C