The Companion Rescue Skills course is designed to enhance your ability to respond effectively in an avalanche situation. This one-day, field-based course provides practical, hands-on experience with avalanche transceivers, probes, and shovels to develop your rescue skills. You will learn how to execute a companion rescue, manage multiple burials, and practice advanced rescue techniques to ensure a quick and efficient response in an emergency. This course is ideal for backcountry skiers, snowboarders, and snowshoers who want to be prepared to assist others in an avalanche scenario.

• Duration: 1 Day (9:00 AM - 4:00 PM)

• Location: Mount Washington area or another suitable backcountry location on Vancouver Island.

• Skill Level: Intermediate - Suitable for anyone who has previously completed AST 1 or equivalent.

• Group Size: Maximum 8 participants per instructor.

• Guide-to-Client Ratio: 1:8 for effective and personalized instruction.

• Avalanche Transceiver Use: Develop proficiency with transceiver search techniques, including fine and coarse searches.

• Probing and Shoveling Techniques: Learn efficient probing patterns and strategic shoveling methods to reduce rescue times.

• Multiple Burial Scenarios: Practice complex rescues involving multiple burials and learn to prioritize effectively.

• Rescue Organization: Understand how to organize a rescue, manage group dynamics, and communicate effectively in an emergency.

What’s Included

• ACMG certified instructor

• Avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe (available upon request)

Not Included:

• Required Gear: Avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe (can be provided if needed).

• Backcountry Gear: Touring skis or splitboard, boots, skins, poles.

• Clothing: Warm layers, waterproof outerwear, gloves, toque, and face covering.

• Personal Items: Daypack, water, lunch/snacks, sunglasses or goggles, sunscreen.

Physical Fitness:

A moderate level of fitness is required, as the course includes outdoor field days that may involve hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing in backcountry terrain.