WILDERNESS FIRST AID

ESSENTIAL SKILLS FOR OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS

You're climbing/hiking/skiing miles from the trailhead, without cell service and someone in your group is injured. In that moment, your knowledge and skills become the difference between a manageable situation and a crisis.

Knowing how to respond to medical emergencies isn't just useful—it's essential.

WHY TAKE THIS COURSE?

Standard first aid assumes help arrives in minutes. Wilderness emergencies are different. You need to assess injuries, make critical decisions, stabilize patients, and navigate evacuation with limited resources.

This course gives you the skills and confidence to handle backcountry emergencies effectively. If you spend time in remote terrain, this training is indispensable.

COURSE DETAILS

Dates: November 8-9, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (both days)
Location: Ascent New Haven, New Haven, CT [map]
Cost: $325

Certifications Earned (2 years):
+ Desert Mountain Medicine Wilderness First Aid
+ Desert Mountain Medicine CPR
+ Wilderness Anaphylaxis Training

Training by:
Jackson Hole Outdoor Leadership Institute

Certification Provider:
Desert Mountain Medicine

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WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:

Patient Assessment & Stabilization

  • Systematic wilderness patient assessment

  • Life threatening injury recognition

  • Shock & trauma management

Environmental Emergencies

  • Hypothermia, heat illness

  • Altitude related sickness

  • Lightning and other environmental hazards

Common Injuries

  • Stabilizing fractures, dislocations, sprains

  • Wound management and infection prevention

  • Head and spine injuries

Critical Skills

  • CPR and basic life support (included)

  • Anaphylaxis recognition and treatment

  • Patient carries and evacuation techniques

  • Rescue decision making

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

Christopher Broughton-Bossong is a New Hampshire-based Paramedic and Wilderness Rescue Responder with extensive experience in emergency medicine and backcountry response.

As a Jackson Hole Outdoor Leadership Institute instructor, Chris brings real-world expertise from both urban EMS and remote wilderness rescue operations. His teaching combines technical medical knowledge with practical field experience, preparing students for the realities of backcountry emergencies.

FAQs

  • This course is designed for anyone who ventures into remote areas:

    • Rock and ice climbers heading into alpine or backcountry terrain

    • Hikers and backpackers on multi-day trips

    • Ski tourers and backcountry skiers in remote mountains

    • Outdoor guides and trip leaders responsible for groups

    • Outdoor educators and program staff

    • Mountain bikers, trail runners, and adventure athletes

    • Anyone who spends significant time beyond quick access to emergency services

    No medical background required. This course starts with fundamentals and builds practical skills you can use immediately.

  • Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing suitable for indoor and outdoor activities. Bring a notebook, pen, water bottle, and lunch/snacks for both days. All medical training equipment is provided.

    We like to practice improvising responses using items you commonly find in your backpack. After enrollment, you will receive a more complete packing list of items to bring with you.

  • The course includes hands-on practice scenarios that may involve kneeling, lifting, and moving patients (using other students as practice patients). A moderate level of physical fitness is helpful but not required. If you have disabilities or physical activity limitations, please let your instructor know.

  • No. This course is designed for beginners and assumes no prior medical knowledge.

  • No, please bring your own lunch and snacks. We'll take a break midday, and there are nearby food options in New Haven.

  • Your WFA and CPR certifications are valid for two years. Recertification courses are available to maintain your credentials.