In Swiftwater Rescue Tactical Priorities, which priority corresponds to Reach?

• A. Search (Awareness)
• B. Throw (First Responder)
• C. Reach (First Responder)
• D. Talk (Awareness)

Answer: (C)

The main idea is using the safest, least-risk action first in a swiftwater rescue. Reach is the First Responder tactic that fits here: you extend a tool or your arm from shore or a safe position to contact or help the victim without entering the water. Because you can often make contact from a distance, it minimizes danger to you while still aiding the person. If reaching isn’t possible, you then proceed to the next tactic in the sequence (throwing a flotation device) rather than diving in immediately. The other terms are focused on awareness or communication rather than actively contacting the victim, or they describe subsequent steps after reach.