Avalanche Rescue & 1st Aid
Our unique 2-day Companion Rescue course includes training on Wilderness First Aid topics specific to avalanche victims – cold injuries, trauma and transport considerations in winter environment. Avalanche Rescue and First aid combined are essential skills required to respond effectively to an avalanche incident. Ideal for Skiers, snowboarders and Mountaineers who want to strengthen their ability to perform a quick and efficient rescue and work on their Avalanche Rescue skills.
Canada West Mountain School is an Authorized AST Provider
Select Date to Register
Optional Add-Ons
Avi Kit (2 day) $40.00
Cost Details
- 2 day of Avalanche Rescue/Wilderness 1st Aid instruction by our Avalanche Instructors
- Access to our Avi Gear rentals delivered to you on the course if needed
Dates
Description
Equipment
- All Access Adventures – Lower Mainland Backcountry ski, splitboard and snowshoe rentals.
Use Promo Code CWMSSTUDENT10 to receive 10% off all rentals at All Access Adventures Rentals. You can also contact Sarah at All Access Adventures directly by phone at 778-200-7600 for full details and availability. - Valhalla Pure Outfitters (VPO) Squamish Backcountry Ski rentals
Squamish-based Valhalla Pure Outfitters (VPO) has generously offered a 50% discount on all Backcountry ski rentals and Avalanche Safety gear Rentals while on an AST-1 or AST-2 course. Use Promo Code VPOAST2024 to save 50% off all rentals, you will also require proof of registration in your CWMS AST-1 course –Valhalla Pure Outfitters Waivers & Policies
- Canada West Mountain School Waiver form
- Avalanche Canada Waiver (online review only, must be signed in person on Day 1 of the course)
Location
Pre-requisites
Avalanche Rescue & 1st Aid Course: $275. + GST
Included in Canada West Mountain School Avalanche Rescue & 1st Aid course:
Avalanche Safety Equipment:
Transceiver, Shovel, and Probe are required for each person. Rentals are available through Canada West for $40. Rentals must be booked at the time of Registration, add “Avi Kit” when registering. The Canada West Avi Kit rentals will be supplied directly to you at your course – there are no hassles with going to another shop to pick them up or drop them off before the course!
CANCELLATIONS and TRANSFERS
Please click here for our Refund Policy
AST-1 Rescue and First Aid course dates TBD
Our unique Companion Rescue Course is is designed to provide a solid foundation of Avalanche Rescue techniques and Wilderness First Aid protocols for recreational travellers who may need to respond to an avalanche involving members of their own, or nearby groups.
All techniques taught reflect the most recent developments and research in the Avalanche Rescue and Wilderness First Aid industries. Our Companion Rescue Course follows the curriculum and guidelines set by Avalanche Canada. Of course, we also ensure that the skills taught are appropriate to recreational skiers, snowboarders, mountaineers, and snowshoers.
Avalanche Skills Course Gear List
Review this list before the course start date – Canada West Mountain School Avalanche Course Gear List. Everyone needs to be fully prepared for any/all winter conditions, the course will be conducted in all weather including low temperatures, high winds, and rain/snow.
Avalanche Safety Gear and Rentals
A Transceiver (digital 3-antennae model), Avalanche shovel, and Avalanche probe are required for each person. Please review your transceiver operating instructions before arriving on your course, and double-check battery strength.
If you require Avalanche Safety Gear, Canada West Mountain School maintains a large rental inventory of avalanche safety equipment exclusively for our students. Our “On-Course” Avi Kit Rentals are only $40 for a 2-day AST course and include a Transceiver, Shovel, and Probe for both days of your course. The Canada West “On-Course” Avi Kit rentals will be supplied directly to you on your course – there are no hassles with going to another shop to pick them up or drop them off! Please book your rentals at the time of AST Course Registration, add “Avi Kit” when registering as they are often booked out by the time the course runs.
Backcountry Touring Gear
Proper backcountry touring skis, split-board, or snowshoes are required for the AST refresher course held on Mt Seymour.
Backcountry Ski and Split-board rentals
Canada West Mountain School has some awesome Partners who have stepped up with great gear rental options and offers this season!
Waiver & Medical Disclosure Forms
Participants on Canada West Mountain School programs must complete the following:
Cancellation & Transfer policy
Review the CWMS cancellation and transfer policy:
Both days of the Companion Rescue course will be a held in a local outdoor mountain environment. Specific locations will be determined based on current weather and snow conditions, but typically we will use Mount Seymour as it allows for the most effective use of time; or, in the alpine regions behind Whistler/Blackcomb mountains. Alternate locations may be used depending on alpine and weather conditions at the time of the course.
Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from field locations. We encourage participants to ride-share and rarely have had any problems with students getting to and from courses, but we cannot guarantee that a ride will be available. If you have any concerns about transportation please contact our office before you register.
AST-1 training, or equivalent. Must be comfortable with backcountry skiing, split-boarding or snowshoeing.
No previous First Aid training required.
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Contact
Main office 604.878.7007
Squamish 604.815.3451
Toll Free 1.888.892.2266
1290 3rd St
West Vancouver, BC
V7S 2Y2
Canada
