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WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER (WFR)

South Downs and on-site nationwide

While WFR module 3 introduces new skills such as the use of Automatic External Defibrillation the main emphasis is on using scenario based training and assessment to hone skills and build confidence.
 
Participants attending modules 1-3 receive copies of the Wilderness First Aid and Wilderness First Responder manuals and Remote Care handbook.
Next date tbc

Module III - YHA Alfriston, East Sussex

£145

This course is run in two formats- modular or week long.

Modular: Our open programme course is run over three weekend modules totaling 68 hours contact time and min rcm. 20 hours home study. Students can progress through each weekend module gaining certification as they go - firstly Wilderness First Aid , followed by Remote Care and finally Wilderness First Responder.

Single Block: Alternatively if you want to book in-house training for your organisation we provide this training as an intensive week long course (7 days) with some pre-course home study. Contact our training team to discuss how we can help. Tel: 0845 2235439 E-mail: firstaidtraining@muir-walker.coop

Course outline

For those involved in outdoor leadership Wilderness First Responder is the global standard for emergency care in remote locations. WFR covers a wide range of topics set out in recommendations by the Wilderness Medical Society.

The general educational objectives of WFR courses are to "instruct students in:

  • the fundamental principles of anatomy and physiology;
  • prevention, recognition, and management of injuries and illnesses in the wilderness;
  • the causes, recognition, and management of unique wilderness illnesses and injuries not typically seen in an urban environment;
  • extended care in the wilderness environment;
  • the principles of wilderness survival, SAR [Search And Rescue], packaging, and transportation; and
  • the contents of wilderness emergency care kits and improvisation of emergency equipment and supplies." (Wilderness First Responder: Recommended Minimum Course Topics, Wilderness and Environmental Medicine, 10, 13-19 (1999) )

Module 3 builds on the knowledge and skills in wilderness care attained throughout the previous 36 hours of training in Module 1 & 2. While module 3 does introduce new skills and knowledge the main emphasis is on using scenario based training and assessment to hone skills and build confidence. The lions share of the course is spent outdoors in the woods, valleys and hills surrounding YHA Alfriston.

Course Times:

  • Friday: Daytime sessions - 9am-7pm, Dinner 7-8pm, Evening session 8-10pm
  • Saturday: Daytime sessions - 9am-7pm, Dinner 7-8pm, Evening session 8-9.30pm
  • Sunday: Daytime sessions - 9am-6.30pm

As well as refreshing, practicing and systemizing techniques initially encountered in Modules 1 & 2 the weekend also brings new skills and knowledge. Some highlights include:

  • Automatic External Defibrillation
  • Advanced litter construction
  • Airway adjuncts and Bag-Valve Mask in Basic Life Support
  • Management of Psychological & Behavioral Emergencies in Remote areas
  • Bivouac Skills
  • Femoral Traction Devices
  • Dental Problems
  • Search Methods

Entry requirements

Our 7 day in-house courses are entry level but to achieve Wilderness First Responder certification through our open programme participants need to attend all three weekend modules. A reasonable level of physical fitness is needed to complete module 3, along with basic navigation skills and the ability to complete some guided home study.

Course manuals, certification and assessment

All successful students receive a Wilderness First Responder certificate valid for three years as well AED/BLS certification.

Participants receive three main course texts as they progress through the modules. WFR Module 1 (Wilderness First Aid) uses 'Wilderness First Aid: Emergency Care for Remote Locations' by the Wilderness Medical Society as its key text, as does WFR Module 2 (Remote Care) along with our 'Remote Care: Patient Assessment & Advanced Skills' handbook. WFR Module 3 brings in new elements thanks to Buck Tilton's classic 'Wilderness First Responder' manual.

Attainment of Module 1 and 2 are achieved by passing multiple choice papers and on-going assessment by course instructors. Module 3 includes a further two written papers, hands-on scenario based assessments, an assessed case study as well as on-going assessment by course staff.

Venue, Accommodation and Meals

This course is held in and around Alfriston Youth Hostel. We take full advantage of its setting in the South Downs to do many practical sessions outside. The location is a Sussex flint house, partly dating from 1530 with a Tudor beamed lounge, a mile from the the village of Alfriston. The Seven Sisters spectacular sea cliffs are nearby. Set in a large garden overlooking the Cuckmere Valley, the hostel is also an ideal base for exploring the South Downs.

Our course costs are not residential. Accommodation is available at Alfriston YHA, but needs to be booked in advance. Bunk beds in rooms are £13.25 per night for YHA members, £16.25 for non-members. A limited number of two-bed rooms are available (including one with on-suite shower room) at £13.50 per member per night, £16.50 non-members. Alternatively, we can provide you with a local accommodation list.

Light refreshments are provided in the training room throughout the day, but bring packed food for lunch times and when we are out in the surrounding countryside. Breakfast, dinner and packed lunches are available from the hostel or you can use one of the self-catering kitchens. When booking at Alfriston YHA tell them you are attending our course. Their telephone number is: 0870 770 5666

NOTE: Alfriston YHA cannot book course places, only accommodation and meals.

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