How to Become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer (Make Waves in Rescue!)
If you’ve ever dreamed of braving the seas to save lives or wondered what it takes to become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer, you’ve landed in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll navigate through the EXACT steps you need to undertake to embark on your career as a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer. We’ll discuss:
- The physical and mental skills you need.
- The training and education that will prepare you for this role.
- How to secure a position as a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer.
So, whether you’re a swimming novice or an experienced water enthusiast seeking a challenging career, stay tuned.
We’re about to dive deep into the blueprint to become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer.
Let’s get started!
Steps to Become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer
Step 1: Assess Physical Fitness and Swimming Proficiency
Before you can start training to become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer, it is essential to assess your physical fitness and swimming proficiency.
This job is physically demanding and requires excellent strength, endurance, and agility.
You should be able to swim long distances, handle rough waters, and perform physically challenging tasks while in the water.
Start by evaluating your current fitness level.
You should be comfortable swimming in the pool and open water, and be able to swim for extended periods without tiring.
If you find that your swimming skills or overall fitness level are lacking, start a rigorous training program to improve.
Training for the physical fitness test, which includes swimming, push-ups, sit-ups, pull-ups, and a 1.5-mile run is also crucial.
It would be wise to seek professional training advice to ensure that you are preparing your body correctly and efficiently for the challenges ahead.
Additionally, you need to ensure you are mentally prepared for the intensity of the role.
The job of a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer is often performed under stressful and dangerous conditions, and a strong mental fortitude is necessary for success.
Remember, the goal is not just to pass the physical fitness test but to excel in it to increase your chances of being accepted into the Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer training program.
Step 2: Research the Role and Understand the Requirements
Before you start training to become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand the role and the requirements associated with it.
This role is physically and mentally challenging, involving high-stress rescue operations in extreme conditions.
You should be prepared for rigorous physical training and should have a strong swimming ability.
The basic requirements to join as a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer include being between the ages of 18 and 28, being a U.S. citizen or resident alien, holding a high school diploma or GED equivalent, and passing a military entrance physical.
Additionally, you need to pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test with a minimum score.
Moreover, you should be able to pass a stringent physical fitness test which includes timed swimming, push-ups, sit-ups, pull-ups, and a 1.5-mile run.
Also, you must be comfortable with heights and possess good eyesight.
Also, research the tasks and responsibilities of a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer.
These may include rescuing people from the sea in distress, providing emergency medical treatment, and working as a part of a helicopter crew.
Additionally, you should also look into the training process for becoming a Rescue Swimmer.
This usually includes 18 weeks of training at the Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer school in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, followed by further training in your assigned unit.
Understanding these requirements and what the job entails can help you decide if this is the right career path for you.
Step 3: Obtain Necessary Education
To become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer, you must first graduate from high school or obtain a GED equivalent.
Then, enlist in the U.S. Coast Guard.
Basic Training for the Coast Guard lasts 8 weeks and is conducted in Cape May, New Jersey.
Next, you need to attend and graduate from the Coast Guard’s Aviation Survival Technician/Rescue Swimmer school in Elizabeth City, North Carolina.
This 18-week course is one of the most challenging in the Coast Guard, with a dropout rate of more than 50 percent.
The course includes both classroom and physical training.
During your training, you will learn emergency medical procedures, survival skills, and flight procedures.
You will also be trained in free diving and various rescue techniques.
Many trainees find the physical demands of the course, including swimming drills and calisthenics, to be the most challenging part.
After completing the Aviation Survival Technician/Rescue Swimmer school, you will need to complete additional training based on the type of aircraft in which you will be flying.
You will also need to maintain your physical fitness and rescue skills through regular training and drills.
To further advance your career, consider getting a degree in a related field, such as emergency medical services or public safety administration, which can increase your knowledge and skills, making you a more effective rescue swimmer and potentially opening up additional career opportunities.
Step 4: Enlist in the Coast Guard
After having ensured your physical fitness and swimming proficiency, the next crucial step to becoming a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer is to enlist in the Coast Guard.
This process starts with contacting a local Coast Guard recruiter who will guide you through the enlistment process.
You must meet certain eligibility criteria to join the Coast Guard.
These include being a U.S. citizen or a resident alien, being between the ages of 17-31 (though veterans may have this age requirement waived), having a high school diploma, and having no major criminal record.
In addition, you will have to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test.
This test will assess your abilities and help determine what jobs you are best suited for in the Coast Guard.
After qualifying, you’ll then attend an eight-week basic training program at Cape May, New Jersey.
This program will push you physically and mentally, preparing you for the demands of service.
This is a critical step in your journey to becoming a rescue swimmer, as the skills and discipline you develop here will form the foundation for your success in the specialty training to follow.
Finally, you will need to apply for Airman Program, which is a screening process to identify candidates who possess the ability and mindset to take on the extraordinary challenges faced by rescue swimmers.
If selected, you will be enrolled in a 24-week Rescue Swimmer School in Elizabeth City, North Carolina.
Step 5: Complete Basic Training for the Coast Guard
To become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer, the first step is to enlist in the US Coast Guard.
This starts with completing Basic Training, a rigorous 8-week course held at the Coast Guard Training Center in Cape May, New Jersey.
During Basic Training, you will undergo physical conditioning and learn about Coast Guard maritime law, safety procedures, sea survival skills, first aid, firefighting, water rescue, and navigation.
You will also receive classroom instruction on various topics including military customs and courtesies, laws of armed conflict, human rights, basic seamanship, and leadership.
In addition to the physical fitness and academic requirements, you will be taught the core values of the Coast Guard: Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty.
You are expected to live by these values in all aspects of your Coast Guard life.
Upon successful completion of Basic Training, you will be assigned to an operational unit where you will have the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned and gain practical experience.
Step 6: Pass the Aviation Survival Technician (AST) School Physical Fitness Test
The next critical step in your journey to become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer is passing the Aviation Survival Technician (AST) School Physical Fitness Test.
This assessment is designed to test your physical capabilities to ensure you can handle the intense physical demands of the role.
The test includes a variety of physical exercises such as running, swimming, push-ups, sit-ups, pull-ups, and underwater swims.
You will need to meet or exceed the minimum standards for each category to pass.
It’s important to keep in mind that these exercises are not just about strength but also about endurance and resilience.
You must prepare for this test carefully and consistently.
Regular physical training involving cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and swimming can help improve your overall fitness levels.
Training in simulated rescue situations can also be beneficial in preparing for the physical demands of the job.
It is also recommended that you maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to maximize your physical performance.
Remember, the job of a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer is physically demanding and requires a high level of physical fitness and endurance.
Passing the AST Physical Fitness Test is proof that you are physically capable of carrying out the duties of the role.
Step 7: Apply for and Complete Aviation Survival Technician (AST) ‘A’ School
After successfully passing the Coast Guard’s physical fitness test and getting selected as an Airman, you will need to apply for the Aviation Survival Technician (AST) ‘A’ School.
This is the Coast Guard’s rescue swimmer training school, where you will learn the fundamental skills necessary to perform as a rescue swimmer.
The course is a rigorous and demanding program.
It usually lasts 24 weeks and is located at the Coast Guard’s training center in Elizabeth City, North Carolina.
The curriculum includes classroom instruction, physical training, and hands-on practice in a variety of environments, including open water and helicopters.
Topics covered will include search and rescue procedures, emergency medical services, and survival skills.
You will also be trained in aircraft systems, aviation life support systems, and helicopter rescue swimmer operations.
Bear in mind that the dropout rate is relatively high due to the challenging nature of the course.
Therefore, staying focused, maintaining physical fitness, and displaying a resilient attitude are essential to complete the training successfully.
Upon successful completion of AST ‘A’ School, you will be assigned to an air station where you will work as part of an aircrew, responsible for performing rescues in various conditions.
To excel in this role, continuously hone your skills and adapt to new techniques and technologies.
Step 8: Complete Advanced Rescue Swimmer School (ARSS)
After qualifying and becoming a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer, it’s time to take your skills to the next level by attending the Advanced Rescue Swimmer School (ARSS).
This is a five-week course provided by the U.S. Coast Guard at their training center in Elizabeth City, North Carolina.
The ARSS will further train you in advanced rescue techniques and procedures, emphasizing decision-making and mission planning.
You will learn advanced rope work, rescue techniques in difficult environments (like cliffs or caves), emergency medical procedures, and navigation skills.
The program also includes survival, evasion, resistance and escape (SERE) training.
By completing this advanced training, you not only enhance your skills but also open up avenues for further career advancement.
After ARSS, you might be selected for more specialized roles within the Coast Guard, or even go on to train new rescue swimmers.
Remember, completion of ARSS and maintaining a high level of physical and mental fitness is essential to continue performing rescue missions and serving in the Coast Guard.
Step 9: Pursue Continuous Training and Physical Conditioning
As a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer, your job will be physically and mentally demanding.
You must stay in top physical condition to perform rescues in all sorts of conditions and environments.
Continuous training and physical conditioning are crucial to maintaining and enhancing your skills and physical abilities.
Regular swimming, strength, and endurance exercises should be a part of your routine.
These can include swimming drills, weight lifting, running, and other forms of cardiovascular exercises.
Also, participate in training programs offered by the Coast Guard to improve specific skills like helicopter rescue techniques, survival skills, and emergency medical procedures.
Furthermore, it is vital to maintain mental strength.
Regular training scenarios, which often involve high-stress, time-critical situations, can help prepare you for real-world rescues.
It is also beneficial to engage in activities that promote mental well-being and resilience, such as yoga, meditation, or counseling.
Remember, the nature of a rescue swimmer’s job means you must be ready for action at all times.
Therefore, it is crucial that you maintain your physical fitness and continually work on improving your rescue skills and techniques.
This not only ensures your readiness for missions but also your safety and the safety of those you are tasked to rescue.
Step 10: Maintain Qualifications and Advance in Your Career
As a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer, it’s crucial to maintain your qualifications and continue to advance in your career.
This means staying physically fit and adhering to the Coast Guard’s fitness requirements.
Regular physical training and swimming practice are necessary to ensure you’re ready to perform at any given moment.
You should also regularly refresh your knowledge and skills.
This could mean participating in additional training programs or workshops related to rescue operations, navigation, survival, and medical training.
The Coast Guard offers many opportunities for advancement and specialized training, so take advantage of them whenever possible.
Additionally, consider obtaining further certifications such as Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic to increase your medical knowledge.
This could also open up more job opportunities within the Coast Guard.
Advancement in the Coast Guard is based on a combination of time in service, satisfactory performance, and successful completion of required examinations.
To move up the ranks, you will need to continually demonstrate competency and dedication in your role.
Finally, network with your peers and superiors.
Building strong professional relationships can help you learn about new opportunities and get valuable advice for your career progression.
Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer Roles and Responsibilities
Coast Guard Rescue Swimmers are vital members of the U.S. Coast Guard, performing one of the most physically and mentally challenging jobs in the service.
They are specialized lifesavers who are trained to operate in all weather and water conditions.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Search and Rescue Operations
- Deploy from helicopters and boats to perform open water rescues.
- Work in various conditions including high seas, hurricanes, and even inside capsized vessels.
- Assist in disaster relief operations.
Medical Assistance
- Provide basic medical care and life support to survivors in distress.
- Transport injured or ill persons for further medical care.
Training
- Undergo intense physical and mental training to handle the high-stress nature of the job.
- Participate in regular training exercises to maintain peak physical condition and rescue skills.
- Attend refresher courses and training to keep up with changes in rescue procedures and equipment.
Equipment Maintenance
- Ensure rescue gear and equipment are in good condition and ready for immediate use.
- Conduct regular checks and maintenance on rescue tools and safety equipment.
Collaboration
- Work closely with other members of the rescue team including pilots and boat crew.
- Cooperate with other emergency services during joint operations.
Safety
- Follow all safety procedures and protocols during rescue operations.
- Ensure personal safety and the safety of the team.
Documentation
- Record details of rescue missions for official reports.
- Provide accurate information for debriefings and incident analysis.
Public Education
- Educate the public on safety measures and procedures during marine emergencies.
- Participate in community events and demonstrations to promote water safety and awareness.
Physical Fitness
- Maintain peak physical condition to meet the demands of the job.
- Participate in regular workouts and fitness programs.
Continuous Learning
- Stay updated with the latest rescue techniques, procedures, and equipment.
- Attend workshops, seminars, and training programs for professional development.
What Does a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer Do?
Coast Guard Rescue Swimmers, also known as Aviation Survival Technicians, are a part of the elite U.S. Coast Guard’s rescue team.
They are deployed in extreme weather conditions and hazardous environments to save lives.
They are responsible for responding to a wide range of distress calls, which can include anything from a sinking ship to a downed aircraft.
This involves jumping from helicopters or swimming in rough seas to reach those in need.
Rescue Swimmers are trained in advanced swimming and rescue techniques, as well as survival skills for extreme conditions.
They are also proficient in providing emergency medical treatment to survivors until they can be transported to a medical facility.
In addition to their rescue duties, Coast Guard Rescue Swimmers often assist in disaster relief operations.
They may be involved in delivering essential supplies to disaster-stricken areas or evacuating people from danger zones.
These professionals also have a critical role in maintaining and inspecting rescue equipment, conducting training exercises, and ensuring the operational readiness of their units.
They spend a considerable amount of time training and staying physically fit to maintain their readiness for any possible rescue scenario.
Essential Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer Skills
- Physical Fitness: Rescue swimmers must be in top physical condition to handle the demands of the job. This includes strong swimming skills, strength, agility, endurance, and comfort in water environments.
- Emergency Medical Skills: Often, rescue swimmers are the first to attend to victims in emergency situations. Therefore, knowledge and skills in first aid and CPR, as well as other emergency medical procedures, are essential.
- Navigation Skills: Rescue swimmers must be proficient in map reading, compass use, and other navigation methods to locate individuals in distress quickly and accurately.
- Communication: Effective communication skills are critical in high-stress situations to relay information accurately and quickly, coordinate with other team members, and reassure victims.
- Helicopter Skills: Knowledge of helicopter operations, including safe exiting and entry from the aircraft, is essential. Rescue swimmers must also understand how to secure victims for airlifts.
- Survival Skills: Rescue swimmers must be trained in survival skills, including how to survive in open water, dangerous weather conditions, and harsh terrains.
- Problem-solving: In emergency situations, quick thinking and the ability to solve problems effectively and efficiently can mean the difference between life and death.
- Teamwork: Rescue operations require seamless coordination among team members. Rescue swimmers must work well in a team and cooperate with other members for successful operations.
- Diving Skills: Proficiency in surface and subsurface diving is crucial. This includes understanding diving physics, use of diving equipment, and diving rescue procedures.
- Rescue Techniques: Knowledge of various rescue techniques, including towing, defensive maneuvers, and victim recovery, is essential.
- Mental Toughness: The role involves high-stress situations and potential risk to life. Mental resilience and the ability to remain calm under pressure are key.
- Knowledge of Equipment: Understanding and ability to use a variety of rescue equipment, from flotation devices to rescue baskets, is important.
- Environmental Adaptability: Rescue swimmers may face various environmental conditions, including rough seas, high winds, and extreme temperatures. Ability to adapt and operate in these conditions is essential.
- Discipline and Professionalism: As members of the Coast Guard, rescue swimmers are expected to adhere to a high standard of discipline, integrity, and professionalism at all times.
- Search Procedures: Knowledge of systematic search procedures in different scenarios and environments is crucial to locate and rescue individuals swiftly and effectively.
Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Basic Training and AST A-School
Your journey typically starts with completing the Coast Guard’s 8-week basic training program.
After basic training, you’ll proceed to the Aviation Survival Technician (AST) A-School, where you’ll learn the fundamentals of search and rescue operations, survival skills, and emergency medical procedures.
Here are some tips for success in this stage:
- Physical Fitness: Maintain top physical condition as the job is physically demanding.
- Learn Continuously: Master the basics of survival, swimming, and emergency medical aid.
- Teamwork: Work well with your peers, as you’ll often be part of a tight-knit rescue team.
The Ascent: Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer
After graduation from the AST A-School, you’ll be assigned as a Rescue Swimmer in a Coast Guard Air Station.
You’ll be involved in a variety of missions, from rescuing people in distress at sea to providing emergency medical care.
Here’s how to excel in this role:
- Adaptability: Be adaptable to work in various challenging environments and weather conditions.
- Decision Making: Hone your decision-making skills to make quick calls during emergency situations.
- Medical Skills: Continue to enhance your medical skills as you will be the first responder in many cases.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer
With experience and increased proficiency, you may get promoted to a Senior Rescue Swimmer position.
In this capacity, you may take on mentoring roles, guide junior swimmers, and lead more complex rescue missions.
To thrive as a Senior Rescue Swimmer:
- Mentorship: Share your knowledge and experience with junior rescue swimmers.
- Leadership: Lead by example and inspire others with your courage and dedication.
- Advanced Skills: Keep improving your advanced rescue and medical skills.
Beyond the Horizon: Leadership Roles and Beyond
As your career progresses, you may step into leadership roles such as Chief Petty Officer or Master Chief Petty Officer.
You may also choose to specialize in areas like training, operations planning, or policy development.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Leadership: Develop strong leadership skills to guide larger teams and initiatives.
- Strategic Thinking: Be involved in strategizing and planning rescue operations.
- Training: If you transition into a training role, develop strong coaching skills to train the next generation of rescue swimmers.
Pinnacle of Success: Command Master Chief or Sector Command
At the highest tiers of the Coast Guard, you could become a Command Master Chief, the senior-most enlisted member of a Coast Guard unit, or even a Sector Command Master Chief, responsible for multiple units.
In these roles, you’ll be responsible for shaping the overall strategy of your unit or sector, making critical decisions, and managing larger teams.
Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer Salary
Entry-Level Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer
- Median Salary: $30,000 – $45,000 per year
- Entry-level Coast Guard Rescue Swimmers typically have 0-2 years of experience and have successfully completed the Coast Guard’s rigorous training program.
Mid-Level Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer
- Median Salary: $45,000 – $60,000 per year
- Mid-level swimmers have 2-5 years of experience and are often responsible for more complex missions and may take on leadership roles within their unit.
Senior Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $80,000 per year
- Senior swimmers have 5+ years of experience and are often in positions of leadership, responsible for planning missions and training junior team members.
Rescue Swimmer Instructor / Unit Leader
- Median Salary: $80,000 – $100,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and involve technical and tactical leadership, training development, and decision-making within rescue units.
Senior Leadership Roles (e.g. Commanding Officer, Operations Manager)
- Median Salary: $100,000 – $140,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and a deep understanding of rescue operations. They are often responsible for overseeing large units and making strategic decisions.
Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer Work Environment
Coast Guard Rescue Swimmers often work in a variety of challenging and unpredictable environments, largely at sea but also over inland bodies of water.
Their work takes place in all weather conditions, from blazing heat to frigid cold, calm seas to violent storms.
The job of a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer is physically and mentally demanding, as they are frequently called upon to perform daring rescues in high-stress situations.
They operate from Coast Guard cutters, helicopters, and shore stations, often working long hours and remaining on call for extended periods.
During periods of inactivity, Rescue Swimmers may spend their time at coast guard stations where they undergo rigorous training and maintain their physical condition.
Despite the difficult conditions and high stress, the role offers a great sense of satisfaction and achievement as they are directly involved in saving lives and ensuring maritime safety.
FAQs About Becoming a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer
What qualifications do I need to become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer?
To become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer, you must first be an active-duty member of the Coast Guard.
You’ll also need a high school diploma or equivalent, though a college degree is beneficial.
You must pass a physical fitness test that includes swimming, running, push-ups, and sit-ups.
Additionally, you must complete the Coast Guard’s Basic Training, followed by an intensive 24-week Rescue Swimmer School.
You’ll also need to complete EMT training.
Strong swimming skills, physical stamina, mental toughness, and teamwork are essential for this role.
How long does it take to become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer?
The time it takes to become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer varies.
After initially enlisting in the Coast Guard, you will undergo 8 weeks of Basic Training.
Following this, you will spend an additional 24 weeks at the Rescue Swimmer School.
This does not include the time spent gaining experience in the field or additional training such as Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training.
Do I need a specific degree to become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer?
No, a specific degree is not required to become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer.
However, a degree in fields such as physical education, sports science, or even psychology could be beneficial.
The most important factor is passing the Coast Guard’s physical fitness test and completing the Rescue Swimmer School and EMT training.
Is being a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer dangerous?
As with any search and rescue position, being a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer can be risky.
Rescue Swimmers often work in extreme weather conditions, rough seas, and other hazardous situations.
However, the Coast Guard provides extensive training to ensure that Rescue Swimmers are well-prepared for these challenges.
They also operate in teams, providing additional safety and support during rescue missions.
What are the career prospects for a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer?
Career prospects for a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer are generally good.
While the field is small and highly competitive, Rescue Swimmers can advance in rank and responsibility with experience and additional training.
Some Rescue Swimmers also transition into related fields such as law enforcement, firefighting, or emergency medicine after their service in the Coast Guard.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Launching your journey to become a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer is undoubtedly demanding, but it’s beyond rewarding.
Equipped with the right training, fitness level, and resolve, you’re well on your way to making a significant impact in maritime safety.
Remember, the journey may be tough, but the rewards are boundless. Your courage and skills could lead to lifesaving missions that change the course of lives.
So, take that first plunge. Dive deep into training. Connect with seasoned rescue swimmers. And most importantly, never stop pushing your physical and mental boundaries.
Because the ocean is waiting for your courage and tenacity.
And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career as a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to offer tailored advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.
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