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Step 1
The guide should introduce a buddy system in the paddle talk. Your buddy will be the person directly across from you in the raft. If your buddy falls out, you should be the first one to react. If it does not endanger your safety or the safety of others on the boat, quickly stash your paddle and shift your weight to the other side of the boat. Reach out for the top of his life jacket or under his armpits to try and hoist him back in.
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Step 2
If the swimmer has already drifted far enough from the boat where this kind of rescue is not possible ,try reaching out the T grip of your paddle for her to grasp onto. This way, you can pull her back towards the raft so she can scramble back in.
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Step 3
If the swimmer has drifted too far from the boat to make this possible, he needs to assume the whitewater swim position.
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Step 4
The swimmer should turn so his feet face downstream, bend his knees slightly and arch his back slightly. The bent knees absorb the shock of hitting objects with your feet and the slightly arched back ensures that you will not hit your back on obstacles underwater. Keep your body as close to the surface of the water as possible. Use your arms to steer and direct your body through the rapids. Keep your head above water to ensure your safety and ability to breathe as well as to listen for the swimming instructions your guide will be shouting to you.
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Step 5
Most likely in this situation the guide will be instructing you to swim towards an eddy while she is trying to catch up with you in the boat. Once you reach an eddy, stay put and someone will come and get you.
