COMDTINST M3710.4D governs policy, standards, instructions, and capabilities for all phases of Coast Guard rescue swimmer operations.
View COMDTINST M3710.4D on armypubs.army.mil
It covers helicopter rescue swimmer missions, capabilities, restrictions, training, equipment, deployment, survivor procedures, and lifesaving techniques. It establishes minimum training, inspection, documentation, evaluation, and recertification requirements.
Applies to: It prescribes policy, standards, instructions and capabilities pertinent to all phases of Coast Guard rescue swimmer operations and is intended for use by operational commanders, unit commanding officers, rescue swimmers, aircrews tasked with operations, as well as customers of Coast Guard aviation.
Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus (SCUBA) procedures or equipment shall be neither used nor maintained by rescue swimmers. (paragraph 3)
Units are not permitted to evaluate new procedures or equipment without the written authorization of Commandant (CG-711). (paragraph 4)
Prior to assuming duty and conducting any flight operations, the RS shall inspect their own personal gear, all ready gear, supplemental SAR equipment, and EMT equipment IAW applicable Maintenance Procedure Cards (MPC). (paragraph 3)
All rescue swimmers must complete the continuing education requirement prior to their current National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification expiration date. (paragraph 6)
For single and multiple survivors in the water, or other environments, the RS shall determine the priority for survivor rescue based on injuries, onscene conditions, environmental conditions, rescue asset endurance, and available equipment. (paragraph 5)