Mountain Medical Academy’s Avalanche First Aid course is a 12-hour, hands-on program designed to answer one key question: “After a successful companion rescue, what comes next?” This course equips backcountry travelers with critical first-aid skills tailored for avalanche scenarios.

Recommended Prerequisites

Completion of an AIARE Avalanche Rescue Course, AIARE Level I course, or equivalent avalanche rescue training Familiarity with avalanche safety equipment (beacon, shovel, probe) A high level of enthusiasm and readiness for hands-on learning!

Ideal Participants

This course is designed for:

• Backcountry skiers and snowboarders
• Snowmobilers and snowshoers
• Rescue professionals

Course Overview

Our Avalanche First Aid course combines classroom instruction and outdoor training to build critical post-rescue first aid skills, including:

• Activating Search and Rescue
• Avalanche Airway Assessment
• Avalanche Trauma and CPR Techniques
• Victim Stabilization (hemorrhage control and hypothermia prevention)
• Certification in American Heart Association (AHA) CPR, First Aid, and AED

Course Schedule

Friday (Classroom Session)

Time: 4 hours, starting at 5:00 PM

In this session, you’ll receive hands-on and lecture-based training on the fundamentals of avalanche first aid:

• Airway and Trauma Assessments
• AHA Heartsaver CPR, First Aid, and AED Certification
• Avalanche Victim Response Algorithm
• Essential First Aid and Survival Gear

Saturday (Outdoor Session)

Time: 8 hours

In a realistic outdoor setting, apply the skills from the classroom in live scenarios designed to challenge your readiness to respond to an avalanche emergency. Students will practice treating victims using real-life medical and outdoor equipment under winter conditions.

Teaching Approach

We use both didactic and experiential teaching methods, blending theory and practical skill-building. Skill stations and scenarios are guided by instructors with extensive medical and backcountry experience, giving students realistic, hands-on training in critical avalanche first-aid response.

Registration Information

• Class Size: Minimum 5 participants, maximum 15
• Location: Outdoor environment—please dress for cold conditions and bring food, water, and a warm drink.
• Policies: Click here to view our refund, deposit, and cancellation policies.

Important Note

This course does not replace a formal avalanche awareness or rescue course, such as AIARE Rescue or AIARE Level I. Instead, it focuses on essential first aid and resuscitation skills specific to avalanche incidents.