Rescue Technician Swim Test (RTST-9)

Evaluation

To pass the test, the rescue technician must:

• Successfully complete all stations with no more than 15 minutes between exercises.
• Score a minimum of 9 points.

Environment and Safety

The test should take place:

• With a lifeguard or other appropriate supervision actively monitoring the swimmers in the water
• In still water (no current) — pool or natural waterbody
• With candidates wearing a properly fitting and good-working-condition Type III or Type V PFD
• If the water temperature is below 18°C, wear a wetsuit or drysuit and/or appropriate layers.

Station 1: 400m Forward Swim

• Swim 400m non-stop using a forward stroke while wearing a Type III or Type V PFD (no fins or snorkels)

Scoring:

Time to Complete — Points

• Under 12 minutes — 5
• 12-15 minutes — 4
• 15-18 minutes — 3
• 18-21 minutes — 2
• 21-22 minutes — 1
• Over 22 minutes or stopping — Incomplete

 Station 2: 50m Head-Up Swim with PFD

• Candidate swims 50m forward, keeping their head out of the water, while wearing a Type III or Type V PFD

Scoring:

Time to Complete — Points

• Under 60 seconds — 5
• 60 sec - 2 min — 3
• 2-3 min — 1
• Over 3 min or stopping — Incomplete

Station 3: Full-size Partner Tow

• Candidate tows a live partner wearing a PFD for 15m
• The partner remains passive, simulating an unconscious subject
• Candidates must use an effective tow technique (PFD Shoulder Strap Tow, Cross-Chest Tow, Armpit Tow), keeping the subject's airway above the water

Scoring:

Time to Complete — Points

• Under 45 seconds — 5
• 45 - 60 seconds — 3
• 60 - 75 seconds — 1
• Over 75 seconds or stopping — Incomplete 

Station 4: 50m Back Crawl with PFD

• Candidate swims 50m using back crawl, alternating arms, while wearing a Type III or V PFD

Scoring:

Time to Complete — Points

• Under 75 seconds — 5
• 75 sec - 2 min — 3
• 2 - 4 min — 1
• Over 3 min or stopping — Incomplete

For all options below, submit your RTST-9 results using the Google Form.

Option 1: Get Tested by a Proctor

• A qualified proctor (18+, Bronze Cross, or NLS certified) administers the test
• The proctor submits results through the Google form (after completing the Proctor Application), entering scores and notes for each station
• See how to become a proctor below

Option 2: Submit a Video

• Record yourself completing the test
• Upload the video to Google Drive (preferred) or Youtube (unlisted)
• Multiple clips are allowed, but each must include a timestamp

Option 3: Submit Proof of Alternative Certification

• Candidates with a current Bronze Cross or NLS certification at the time of their WRT or SRT course may submit proof as an alternative to RTST-9

Submission Deadline

• Complete RTST-9 within 6 months before your WRT or SRT course
• Submit results at least 2 business days before the course start date

Video Recording & File Submission Guidelines

Follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth submission process:

• Video Quality: 720p recommended
• File Format: MP4 or MOV preferred
• Max File Size: Keep files under 1GB for easy uploads
• Timestamps Required: State your name and date at the start of each clip
• Multiple Clips Allowed: Label them in sequence
• Submission Methods:
• Google form upload (preferred method) — Directly upload filed
• Youtube (unlisted alternative) — Share the link via the form

• The Boreal River Rescue office will spot-check RTST-9 submissions
• If an instructor has concerns about a candidate's swimming ability, we review the video in detail.

Proctor Responsibilities

• Ensure accurate timing and evaluation of each station
• Coaching is allowed, but no physical assistance may be given

If you hold a Bronze Cross or NLS certification and are 16+, you can apply to become a proctor. Proctoring is straightforward.

Apply to Be a Proctor