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WATER SURVIVAL PROGRAM

LOGO FINAL
Ensuring combat readiness by providing Marines the ability to survive a waterborne mishap.

Each of these training programs serve to successfully prepare and familiarize Marines with the aquatic environment they will encounter at water survival qualification. The programs are structured in a progressive manner and can prepare Marines for their upcoming water survival qualification. In order to select the correct program, first the Marine must conduct a personal and honest assessment of their own aquatic strength and attitude towards an aquatic environment.

Swim Survival Skills Training (S3T) – Aquatic Strokes

Recommended survival stroke for weak swimmers or non-swimmers.

Swim Survival Skills Training (S3T) – Employ Floatation Devices

This skill is completed on deck. All the gear must be attached to the waterproofed pack prior to entering the water. The videos are part of a how-to series for completion of the exit skill events in each level of the Marine Corps Water Survival Program (MCWSP). Video 1 of 3.

Swim Survival Skills Training (S3T) – Gear Shed

Combat uniform and combat load to perform gear shed includes: o Blouse o Boots o Trouser o Flak o Kevlar o Rifle

Swim Survival Skills Training (S3T) – Rescue Victims

Marines must rescue a victim by: o Identify the victim – Activate the EAP and have someone call 911 o Enter the water. o Swim to the victim – use crawl or breast stroke approach. o Perform appropriate block technique. o Perform appropriate escape technique. o Perform appropriate level-off technique. o Perform appropriate tow technique. o Perform appropriate carry technique. o Perform distress swimmers assist if required. o Proceed to move the victim to safety and exit the water.

Swim Survival Skills Training (S3T) – Escapes and Blocks

The wrist-escape is used when a victim grabs the rescuer on the arm or wrist. Submerge the victim quickly by reaching across with the free hand, pushing down on the victim’s shoulder to submerge the victim and kicking to propel upward. While keeping the victim submerged with the hand on the victim’s shoulder, give three hard jerking pulls with the trapped hand in order to attempt to break free from the victim’s grasp. Once free, swim away of the victim.

Swim Survival Skills Training (S3T) – Tows, Level Offs, and Carries

If the time allows, remove the helmet and gear before attempting the rescue. Approach the victim slowly and asses the situation. Grab the victim’s armpit with the hand, use the right hand for the victim’s right armpit or left hand for the victim’s left armpit victim. Position sideways to the victim and place elbow in the center of the victim’s back. Pull with the hand that is not in the victim’s armpit while pushing with the elbow that is in the victim’s back to place the victim horizontally on the water’s surface, face up. Towing arm should be straight and along the side. Use the lead arm (bottom arm) to execute short, vigorous pulls. Execute a scissor or inverted scissor kick in a continuous and vigorous manner. Use either free breathing or explosive breathing during the tow. During free breathing keep your head above the water’s surface and continuously reassure the victim. During explosive breathing, put the head under the water to plane off the rescuer’s body angle and reduce drag. Execute approximately two strokes, then lift the head up to breathe and reassure the victim. Return the head back underwater for the next few strokes.

Swim Survival Skills Training (S3T) – Self-Rescue

Self Rescue Steps: o Enter the water from platform o Orient to surface o Clear breathing space o Orient to safety o Exit the water