What is the acceptable condition for a rescuer to swim head first downstream?

Swimming head first downstream is most acceptable when approaching a strainer, which is an obstruction in the water that can entrap a rescuer. By positioning oneself head first, the rescuer has a better line of sight and can assess the situation more effectively, ensuring personal safety. The head-first technique allows the rescuer to gauge the dynamics of the current and the strainer, facilitating quicker decisions to maneuver away from danger.

This technique may not be safe in scenarios such as a steep drop, where the risks of injury significantly increase, or in calm eddies, where there is generally less need for high vigilance regarding hazards. Similarly, shallow water may introduce other risks, like potential injuries from underwater obstructions or the inability to navigate efficiently. Overall, context and the presence of hazards, like strainers, dictate the appropriateness of swimming styles in water rescue situations.