Extrication is moving a victim from the water to a surface where care can be given, and for an unresponsive victim it must be fast without being careless. Techniques range from a walking assist for a responsive victim, to a two-rescuer lift at the pool edge, to a backboard extrication when spinal injury is suspected or the victim must be kept horizontal. Rescuers use the pool gutter, steps, or zero-depth areas to their mechanical advantage and coordinate lifts with clear verbal counts. Good body mechanics protect the rescuer's back during the lift. For any unresponsive victim, emergency services are activated during the rescue and care begins the moment the victim is on a firm surface.
This video covers the range of techniques for removing a victim from the water: the walking assist for a responsive victim, the beach drag for one who can't walk, and coordinated backboard extricatio…