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Welcome to
Fall Line
River School!

Providing world-class instruction and certification courses in Swiftwater Rescue, Wilderness Medicine, and Whitewater Paddling.

Authorized Provider For 

Based in Richmond, Virginia. Serving Outdoor Enthusiasts Everywhere.

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Swiftwater Rescue

We teach techniques that have been proven to work in the field. Our swiftwater rescue courses are specifically designed for whitewater professionals, first responders, and private boaters.  Tiered, and specialty, course offerings allow you to select a course that meets your needs and ability level.  Our Sierra Rescue International certification courses and American Canoe Association skills courses meet the highest international standard for professional river rescue. All two day swiftwater rescue courses comply with and exceed National Fire Protection Association 1006 Standard for Technical Rescuer Professional Qualifications (2021 edition, Ch 18 Swiftwater Rescue).

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Wilderness Medicine

We all need to know what to do when something goes wrong; whether it is at work, the local park, on a remote river, a forest service road, or far in the backcountry. Our Wilderness First Responder and Wilderness First Aid courses include CPR/AED training, and are focused on giving you hands on skills and knowledge so that you can make educated decisions and know what to do when confronted with a wilderness setting emergency. Our basic First Aid & CPR/AED courses are focused on need-to-know skills for all adventures.  Come learn in a realistic environment that is supportive, educational and fun!

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Whitewater Paddling

In a kayak, or in a raft, there is nothing quite like whitewater paddling. Gain valuable kayaking and rafting skills with an American Canoe Association certified Instructor.  Participants can expect top notch instruction and low student to instructor ratios.  Develop a calm confidence in your paddling, and get feedback and instruction based on your paddling goals. Choose from group instruction or private coaching for beginner to advanced boaters that focus on safety, strokes, maneuvers, and running rapids.  Mini clinics, full day instruction, and multiday courses are available. 

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Instructor Certification

American Canoe Association Instructor Certification is the industry standard for teaching on water. Whether your interest lies in teaching in a formal program, guiding friends or club members, or just improving your own personal skills, these classes provide a wealth of information and hands-on skills training. Emphasis is put on developing technical skills, risk management, group management, experiential education, and self-evaluation.  Our instructor certification program offers workshops and updates for river kayak and swiftwater rescue disciplines.

Our Reputation. Your Testimonials. 

Having worked in the paddling industry for 20 years, I can say without hesitation that Karl stands out as one of the most talented, thoughtful, and dedicated educators I have had the pleasure of working with. His vast experience and professional certifications within the specialties of whitewater kayaking, rafting, swiftwater rescue, and wilderness first aid make him well-rounded, articulate, and welcoming for paddlers of all backgrounds. His student-centered teaching style, coupled with his overall passion for the paddling community, creates a high quality experience for each and every one of his courses.
 

- Kelsey Bracewell, Director of Education, Insurance, and Membership  American Canoe Association