What type of equipment are collapsible stokes litters and surface rescue swimmers not trained on?

Collapsible stokes litters are specifically designed for patient transport and are indeed a crucial piece of equipment used during rescue operations. However, surface rescue swimmers typically receive specialized training focused on operational tasks like swimmer rescues, retrieval techniques, and the use of specific personal flotation devices and rescue buoy systems. This training often does not include in-depth training on the operation and management of collapsible stokes litters, which are typically handled by specialized teams such as medical personnel or rescue technicians.

The other equipment listed—life rafts, emergency flotation devices, and rescue buoys—are directly relevant to the skill set of surface rescue swimmers. These items are integral to ensuring safety during rescues and are more commonly encountered by surface rescue personnel in their training and operational environments. Therefore, the lack of training on collapsible stokes litters indicates that this specific equipment is outside the primary focus of what surface rescue swimmers are prepared to handle.