This course introduces the various factors that contribute to avalanche hazard including terrain, weather, snowpack and the human component (good vs. bad decision making). Avalanche safety equipment such as transceivers, probes and shovels are also presented, with instruction on how to use each of these critical pieces of safety gear. Field time is spent on: 1) developing rescue skills, including transceiver search techniques (single and multiple burial), probing and shoveling; 2) snowpack assessment; and 3) safe travel practices / group travel skills. Upon successful completion of our courses, students receive a certificate of completion in accordance with the American Avalanche Association. This is a non-credit Community Education course, taken with credit students. You will not receive college credit.
January 27, 2026 to February 14, 2026 | 6:00pm-9:10pm PST | Bend
February 17, 2026 to March 7, 2026 | 6:00pm-9:10pm PST | Bend

This course is designed to provide the student with the necessary knowledge and skills to care for an injured or suddenly ill person in a remote location. The methods and protocols presented follow the Wilderness Medical Society guidelines for a 16 hour certification and are specific to a wilderness setting. The Wilderness Medical Society defines wilderness as a remote geographical location more than one hour from definitive care. This is a non-credit Community Education class, taken with credit students. You will not receive college credit.
February 20-22, 2026 | 6:00pm-7:50pm PST | Bend