Wilderness First Aid

Learn basic first aid skills

Accidents happen. People get hurt, sick, or lost. The temperature drops, the wind picks up, and it starts to rain. Would you know what to do? Many backcountry emergencies are preventable, and even when bad things happen, sometimes the wrong care can make things worse. By learning a few basic skills, you can make the difference between a good outcome and a bad one-and maybe even save a life.

WHO IS THE WFA FOR?

The WFA is the perfect course for the outdoor enthusiast or trip leader who wants a basic level of first aid training for short trips with family, friends, and outdoor groups. It also meets the ACA guidelines.

WHAT IS TAUGHT?

The WFA is 16 hours long (two days), and focuses on the basic skills of: Response and Assessment, Musculoskeletal Injuries, Environmental Emergencies, Survival Skills, Soft Tissue Injuries, and Medical Emergencies. CPR (additional half day) focuses on techniques that can help you provide assistance when someone is faced with a cardiac or breathing emergency.

WHERE AND WHEN IS IT HELD?

The WFA through RVA Paddlesports will be held at Reedy Creek Visitor’s Center at 4001 Riverside Dr.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

The cost is $250 per person.

IS THERE AN EXAM?

Yes, there is ongoing evaluation of practical skills, and there are written assessments throughout the course.

DO I GET CERTIFIED?

Yes. You will receive a SOLO WFA certification, which is good for two years.

DOES THE WFA COUNT AS CONTINUING EDUCATION?

The WFA may give continuing ed credits (depending on the specific requirements for your certification) and is approved for recertifying SOLO’s Wilderness First Responder program.