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Avalanche Classes in WA

C

cpatts2000

Well-known member
Hello Everyone,
We are finally done putting together our curriculum for the SNOMOBILE SPECIFIC avalanche classes. We will be offering two different types classes, one classroom and one on the snow, all classes will be held in the Cle Elum area at this time. All classes are run by Alpine Safety Awareness Program (ASAP) and are instructed by snowmobilers. We will have a booth at the Puyallup snow show this weekend so stop by and see us with questions.

Here are the descriptions of the classes.

AVALANCHE AWARENESS COURSE

Avalanches don’t just happen. They happen for a reason: People ignoring obvious clues in Mother Nature. There is a reason every avalanche accident report is just a variation of a previous avalanche accident… we are making the SAME mistakes, over and over.

The one day awareness class focuses on WHY we make inappropriate decisions in avalanche terrain and HOW to make better decisions based on solid information.

We focus on how to best use Avalanche Report as a primary tool in planning where to ride, when to ride there, and what to be aware of while out in the terrain.

Through small group activities, participants learn to recognize the patterns in
human behavior and decision making that has lead to previous accidents. Through this recognition we provide the training to help you have the discipline to follow a checklist of safety protocols that will let you go out, have fun, AND come back again.

The goal of this class is not to scare you away from riding. It is exactly the
opposite: We want you to ride, every day if possible, but doing so by choosing terrain appropriate to the hazard identified in the avalanche report.

. Plain and simple: this class will make a difference in where you ride, how youride, and who you ride with.

To sign up for these classes online, go to www.BrownPaperTickets.com and type in snomo awareness.
Currently, the location for both the classroom and field courses is Cle Elum, Wa. There will be additional courses added at additional locations if there is a demand.You can choose from a variety of dates giving you the opportunity to choose a weekend and train one day while you and your partners ride the next day!



Endorsed by the Washington State Snowmobile Association (WSSA)




Avalanche Rescue Skills Course

This is a field-based class focusing on developing avalanche rescue skills.
Participants will learn to effectively and efficiently use a shovel, probe, and
transceiver in companion rescue scenarios.

By starting out introducing students to beacon theory, range, and proper usage, shoveling techniques, as well as the proper usage of the probe, participants will gradually gain confidence in the use of safety gear. By the afternoon, participants will be participating in group rescue scenario’s involving multiple beacons.

At the end of the training, participants will be competent in the use of their
safety gear, and will have been properly trained in how to conduct a safe and
effective companion rescue.

Participants will have access to an advanced “Beacon Basin” which allows instructors to activate one, two, or multiple beacons in a rescue scenario.

Participants are required to bring their own safety gear (shovel, probe, beacon), and dress for being outside all day.

Endorsed by the Washington State Snowmobile Association (WSSA)

Class Dates:
Awareness Class
Dec 4, Jan 8, Feb 12, March 12

Rescue Skills Course
Dec 5, Jan 9, Jan 22, Feb 13, Feb 26, March 13, March 26

In order to take the skills course you must have first taken the awareness course, so if you have taken the awareness course in the past you can take the skills course on its own.

Cost:
Awareness $90
Skills $125
Combined $185


If you have any questions, or need any clarification, please contact Chad Patterson at chad@methownet.com
Thanks and I hope to see you in one of our classes
 
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There is not a sled specific level 1 to date. We are currently working on it, and this would most likely count toward it. This is a sled specific course, we cover everything concerning rescue techniques and back country travel. We are working on a higher level course but we are not sure when we will be able to offer it due to permitting restraints. These classes will be required in order to take the higher level courses
 
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That is a great idea, I like the sled specific focus. Will there be discussion also on travel techniques and safety if you also ski/snowboard? It seems as though that would kinda flow with what you have outlined
 
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