Wilderness First Aid Course Evaluation Summary
In the great outdoors, emergencies can occur unexpectedly, and help may not be close at hand. To equip outdoor enthusiasts and trip leaders with the necessary skills to handle such situations, the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) offers Wilderness First Aid (WFA) and Wilderness First Responder (WFR) courses. These courses are now accessible through REI, making it easier than ever to acquire life-saving knowledge.
The NOLS WFA class is a two-day comprehensive training programme that provides an overview of common wilderness first aid situations, teaches how to deal with victims, and how to prevent injuries. The course is hands-on and includes learning with other outdoors folks, as well as scenarios and role-playing exercises to ensure practical mastery of the skills.
Participants will learn to handle emergency situations with confidence, a crucial asset for guides, educators, and outdoor enthusiasts. The course covers topics such as spine injuries, head injuries, shock, wounds, broken bones, heat injuries, cold injuries, blisters, lightning, altitude sickness, and allergic reactions. Additionally, the class includes certification to use an EpiPen, which allows the purchase and carrying of one for treating allergic reactions.
For those seeking a more comprehensive training, NOLS offers the WFR course, which is generally 9-10 days long. This course includes administering emergency treatments, managing musculoskeletal injuries, and navigating medical evacuations. The certification is valid for 2 years, with options for recertification.
It's important to note that there are other organizations that teach wilderness first aid, and a Google search can yield results if there isn't an REI/NOLS option near you. However, the NOLS WFA class, offered through REI, is highly regarded in the outdoor industry and provides participants with a valuable skillset that can potentially save lives in the wilderness.
Upon completion of the course, students receive a laminated booklet summarizing the patient assessment system and common conditions, which is meant to be carried in the pack. This handy reference ensures that essential knowledge is always at hand, making it easier to respond effectively in emergencies.
For those who need a refresher or are seeking to re-certify, the NOLS WFA certification needs to be re-certified every two years, but for the everyday hiker, a brush-up course every 5 years may be sufficient.
In the backcountry, help may not be close at hand, making wilderness first aid knowledge crucial. With the practical skills and confidence gained from the NOLS WFA or WFR courses, outdoor enthusiasts can embark on adventures with peace of mind, knowing they are equipped to handle emergencies when they arise. To book a class at your local REI, visit their website or contact them directly for more information.
- The NOLS WFA class, now accessible through REI, is a two-day training program that covers common wilderness first aid situations, teaching participants how to deal with victims and prevent injuries.
- The outdoor industry highly regards the NOLS WFA class, offered through REI, as it provides a valuable skillset that can potentially save lives in the wilderness.
- The course includes learning with other outdoors folks, as well as scenarios and role-playing exercises to ensure practical mastery of the skills.
- Upon completion of the WFA course, students receive a laminated booklet summarizing the patient assessment system and common conditions, which can be carried in the pack for easy reference in emergencies.
- For those who need a refresher or are seeking to re-certify, the NOLS WFA certification needs to be re-certified every two years, but for the everyday hiker, a brush-up course every 5 years may be sufficient.
