Wilderness First Aid (WFA) Course

Course by the Canadian Red Cross

Course Description: In this course, participants will acquire comprehensive first aid and CPR skills. They will also learn essential skills for planning, injury prevention, and ensuring safety in the wilderness, remote workplaces, and non-urban communities. The training emphasizes leadership development, assessment, decision-making, and strategies for extended care (up to 24 hours) in a remote setting. A central focus is on group well-being, including prevention and health.

Please note that a portion of the course is conducted outdoors and requires a higher degree of physical activity and endurance compared to standard first aid training.

Intended Audience: This course is intended for individuals employed in wilderness settings, typically located at least 3 hours away from organized healthcare. These settings often present challenging environments and diverse levels of risk. The course equips participants with skills to ensure safety for themselves and their peers, especially when leading groups in a professional capacity. It is highly suitable for those aspiring to a career as a wilderness first responder, professional guide, park officials or individuals working in fields such as recreation and ecotourism.

Course Prerequisites: Participants for our wilderness & remote first aid program must be 16 years of age and in good health and physical condition. A high level of physical endurance is required for the scenario-based parts of the course.

Wilderness First Aid (WFA) Course Overview

Course Content

• Planning and assessment
• Choking
• Breathing and circulation emergencies
• CPR and AED
• Wound care
• Head, neck, and spinal injuries
• Bone, muscle, and joint injuries
• Sudden medical emergencies
• Environmental injuries and illnesses
• Poisons and wildlife
• Extended care and evacuation
• Occupational health and safety

Completion Criteria

• Ability to comprehend and successfully demonstrate the skills
• Ability to complete a written, closed book, independently completed knowledge evaluation with a minimum mark of 75%
• Must meet additional legislative requirements, if applicable
• Participants must attend and participate in 100% of the course

Course Duration

40 hours (1 week) (25% - 50% of course is taught in a remote setting)

Remote First Aid Certification

Upon completion of this course, participants will receive a 3-year Wilderness and Remote First Aid certificate.

Course Materials

Included in the course:

• Wilderness & Remote Field Guide
• Trip Plan
• Canadian Red Cross First Aid App (download)

(Hard copy can be purchased, but it is not included in the course)

It is advised that you read the textbook in its entirety prior to the start of the course.

*Camping gear and food for the weekend is not provided. Students must bring their own.

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Our Wilderness First Aid courses are available out of various locations, such as Ottawa, Kingston, Montreal, Pembroke, Arnprior, Kemptville, and Smith Falls. Seasoned instructors provide realistic first aid training and hands-on training, equipping you with the necessary skills to efficiently handle emergency situations in the wilderness.

If you have any questions about our course availability or require more information, please don't hesitate to reach out. Our comprehensive course offerings span a wide range of subjects, including standard first aid and CPR to advanced resuscitation and basic life support. We also provide essential equipment like the Tick Key and the Tick Key Removal Kit. Our commitment is to deliver high-quality education and products, catering to both medical professionals and individuals looking to improve their life-saving skills.