Strainer
A strainer is a river hazard that water can flow through but will trap boats, people, or objects. Think of it like a colander in your kitchen - water passes through but pasta stays behind. In river environments, these are usually fallen trees, branches, or man-made debris. River guides need to understand, identify, and safely navigate around strainers as they are one of the most dangerous obstacles in river rafting. The term appears in safety certifications, job descriptions, and training materials for river guides and outdoor recreation professionals.
Examples in Resumes
Successfully identified and safely navigated around strainers during high-water conditions
Trained new guides on recognizing and avoiding strainer hazards
Conducted safety talks highlighting strainers and other river obstacles
Typical job title: "River Guides"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find River Guides
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Training Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you train new guides to identify and handle strainers?
Expected Answer: Should explain their teaching methodology, including both classroom and on-river instruction, emphasizing risk assessment, recognition from different angles, and proper avoidance techniques.
Q: Describe a challenging strainer situation you've managed and how you handled it.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership in risk assessment, decision-making, and team coordination, including specific safety protocols and communication methods used.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors make a strainer particularly dangerous?
Expected Answer: Should discuss water volume, current speed, visibility conditions, and seasonal changes that affect strainer risks, showing practical experience in assessment.
Q: How do you communicate strainer locations to other guides and guests?
Expected Answer: Should explain clear communication protocols, hand signals, and briefing methods used to maintain safety on the river.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a strainer and why is it dangerous?
Expected Answer: Should be able to define a strainer, explain basic risks, and describe common examples found on rivers.
Q: What's the proper procedure when approaching a potential strainer?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic avoidance techniques, early recognition, and when to alert senior guides.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic strainer identification
- Understanding river hazard terminology
- Following senior guide instructions
- Basic river navigation skills
Mid (2-4 years)
- Independent hazard assessment
- Guest safety briefing
- Multiple river condition experience
- Emergency response protocols
Senior (5+ years)
- Training program development
- Advanced risk management
- Emergency situation leadership
- Seasonal river change expertise
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to identify basic river hazards
- Lack of proper safety certification
- Poor communication skills
- No experience with emergency protocols
- Disregard for safety procedures
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