# Ladder approach

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The **ladder approach** is a widely taught [lifesaving](/source/Lifeguard) technique and is used to promote the safety of a [rescuer](/source/Rescuer) during an [aquatic](/source/Water) rescue.[1][2] The approach stresses using the least dangerous method possible during a rescue, and moving on to more dangerous options if it becomes necessary to do so.[3]

This method can help keep the rescuer as safe as possible throughout the rescue.[1]

## The ladder approach

(Safest Option)

- Talk - Try to talk the victim to safety- see if they can help themselves.
- Throw - Throw an aid to the victim
- Reach - Reach with an aid to try to help the victim
- Wade - Wade into the water and provide aid to the victim
- Row - Row out to the victim and help them into your boat/provide them with an aid
- Swim - Swim out to the victim and provide them with an aid
- Tow - Swim out to the victim and tow them back to safety using an aid
- Carry - Swim out to the victim and carry them on your back since they might be unconscious.

(Most Dangerous Option)

- Helo - This stage, representing helicopter rescue is sometimes added. This carries a wide range of different and additional risks for both rescuers and casualty.[4][5]

## References

1. ["The Ladder Approach: a step-by-step procedure for successful rescues"](https://sauvetage.qc.ca/en/lifeguarding/rescue-techniques/ladder-approach-step-step-procedure-successful-rescues). *Société de sauvetage du Québec*. 2015-06-02. Retrieved 2021-04-13.

1. ["Reach, Throw, Row, or Go"](https://www.boat-ed.com/indiana/studyGuide/Reach-Throw-Row-or-Go/10101602_35414/). *www.boat-ed.com*. Retrieved 2023-11-03.

1. September 27, Anonymous // & Reply, 2023 at 1:20 pm // (2023-04-17). ["Reach, Throw, Row, Go! Learn the 4 Water Rescue Techniques"](https://scoutlife.org/outdoors/178557/reach-throw-row-go-learn-more-about-the-4-water-rescue-techniques/). *Scout Life magazine*. Retrieved 2023-11-03.

1. ["dothanfd.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/150.6-Water-Rescue-Signarure-on-File-.pdf"](https://dothanfd.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/150.6-Water-Rescue-Signarure-on-File-.pdf)

1. ["Wet Feet"](https://www.ksar.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/8-Wet-Feet_New_Logo.pdf)

## External links

- [Lifesaving Society](http://www.lifesaving.ca)
- [Lifesaving Society Ontario](http://www.lifesavingsociety.com)
- [International Life Saving Federation](http://www.ilsf.org)

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Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Ladder approach](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ladder_approach) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ladder_approach?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.