Wilderness First Aid

The Wilderness First Aid course offered by the American Red Cross (ARC) is an essential training designed for those engaging in outdoor activities where immediate medical assistance may not be accessible. This course is particularly beneficial for individuals planning trips to high adventure locations such as Philmont, Northern Tier, the Summit, or Sea Base, as well as hiking routes like the Appalachian Trail.

Recognizing the necessity of advanced first aid skills in remote areas, the course is accepted at all four BSA High Adventure sites, which mandate that a certain number of adults are trained in both Wilderness First Aid (WFA) and CPR/AED. For instance, Philmont requires three adults to have this training, while the other sites stipulate at least one trained adult per group.

Furthermore, it is highly recommended to include youth aged 14 and older in this training for enhanced preparedness.

The Wilderness First Aid course spans 16 hours and is tailored to equip participants with vital skills needed for managing medical emergencies in wilderness settings. It comprises a four-hour orientation session and an eight-hour hands-on scenario session, with participants required to complete both to earn their certification valid for two years. To enroll, participants must be at least 14 years old by the course completion date and hold a current adult CPR/AED certification.

The Atlanta Area Council specifically recognizes certifications from the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association, while online courses are not acceptable. Additionally, participants must present a current BSA Medical Form, Parts A & B. For those needing CPR/AED training, a separate class is available, which must also be completed to receive the Wilderness First Aid certification.

The training sessions are scheduled for various dates, providing flexibility for participants to choose the most convenient option.