Wilderness First Aid

Originally called Backcountry Medicine, SOLO's WFA course was first offered in 1975. Since that time thousands of trip leaders have been certified at this level. Recognized by the American Camping Association, US Coast Guard, and various guides' licensing boards as meeting their first aid requirement.

Accidents can and do happen on ropes courses, along country roads, or in the backcountry, and all too often members of a group are not capable of dealing with the emergency. Not only does this lead to improper care of the victim, but it also endangers the entire group.

Studies have shown that improper care of trauma can compound even the simplest of injuries. Very few first aid programs actually address the issues of providing emergency care in a rural, wilderness, or extended care setting.

This is SOLO's twenty-first year offering its workshops in Wilderness First Aid. This 16-hour program covers topics ranging from preparation and prevention to assessment, treatment, and evacuation. All SOLO instructors are experienced rescue personnel with extensive outdoor experience and have been selected not only for their expertise in emergency medicine and rescue, but also for their teaching skills.

Classroom lectures and discussions are supplemented by practical work and problem-solving exercises. The emphasis is always on hands-on experience. Scenarios are an important part of this training.

Day 1:
Introduction
Wilderness vs. Urban First-Aid
Patient Assessment System
Shock & Bleeding
Soft Tissue Injuries & Burns
Musculoskeletal Injuries & Dislocations

Day 2:
Musculoskeletal Injuries & Dislocations
Cold Injuries
Heat & Hydration
Lightning
Allergic Reactions
Exam and Wrap up

While much of the material appears to be standard emergency care information, the backcountry emphasis with long-term care and evacuation complications makes this course unique. Since the principles of first aid are taught, this program is really applicable to any emergency situation.

Course Registration Information

When: Sunday, December 12 & 19, 1999. 8:45AM-5:30PM (this is a 16-hour course)

Where: Congregation Ansche Chesed (251 West 100 Street, corner West End Avenue, NYC)

Costs: $99 for the course and $20 for kosher lunch and snacks (Total: $119/person)
                     (deduct $15 if you bring your own kosher lunches on both days)

Information: Michael Brochstein 212/678-7881 (before 9:00pm), Michael_Brochstein@MABsystems.com

How to Register: Send check (payable to "Ansche Chesed Outings Group") to Michael Brochstein, Ansche Chesed, 251 West 100 Street, New York, NY 10025-5397. Please enclose your full name, address, phone numbers and whether you have any dietary restrictions, allergies, and/or preferences.

Co-sponsored by the Ansche Chesed Outings Group and the Mosaic Outdoor Mountain Club of Greater New York. Limited class size.  Pre-paid reservations only. No walk-ins.