Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA)
Next level training for adventurers and outdoor leaders!
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Starting from:
$595
/per person
Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA)
This course is held in collaboration with Canadian Outdoor Medical Consulting. The Wilderness Advanced First Aid involves at least 40 hours of learning split into 20hr online and 20hr face to face.
- Details
- Gear list
- Course Dates
- FAQS
20hr self-paced online learning & 20hr in-person learning
This 40-hour wilderness advanced first aid course focuses on the basics of managing life and limb threats in remote environments, with a focus on the injuries common to various sports such as mountain biking, ski touring, climbing, and rafting.
The training also includes prevention and treatment of common environmental problems like hypothermia and heat-related illnesses, as well as covering common medical emergencies, choking, drowning and includes a CPR-C certification from the LifeSaving Society.
Our curriculum is based on the Wilderness Medical Associates (WMA) Guidelines.
Book online, or contact our office with any questions at 1-604-938-9242 or info@mountainskillsacademy.com.
Students can expect a mix of indoor and outdoor learning for the practical outdoor training, please prepare for any weather conditions.
Students can use their own outdoor gear so as to be familiar with the equipment that will be available to them in a real world first aid situation.
Things to bring:
- Comfortable clothing
- Weatherproof outerwear for the outdoors portion of the course. Please check the weather forecast each day and dress appropriately.
- Lunch/Snacks/Water
- Pen/pencil and notebook (recommended)
- First Aid/Guide’s pack if you have one
Book online, or contact our office with any questions at 1-604-938-9242 or info@mountainskillsacademy.com.
Squamish (in-person learning):
May 29th (evening), 30th (full day) & 31st (full day), 2026
Book online, or contact our office with any questions at 1-604-938-9242 or info@mountainskillsacademy.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
The FAQs listed below are specific to this activity. For broader questions regarding clothing recommendations, equipment lists, lift tickets, or booking and weather policies—as well as other common topics—please visit our General FAQs.
Activity-Specific FAQs
What should I bring to the course?
Dress for the weather and outdoor practice. You’ll need comfortable clothing, weatherproof layers, lunch/snacks, water, a notebook, and a personal first aid pack if you have one.
Where and when is WAFA offered?
WAFA is offered in Squamish during the spring and fall. You’ll complete the 20-hour online portion in advance, followed by two full days of in-person training.
Do I need any previous experience to take WAFA?
No prior experience is required. This course is open to anyone looking to deepen their first aid knowledge, especially those involved in outdoor leadership, guiding, or recreation.
What skills will I learn in this course?
You’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to manage serious injuries, illnesses, and environmental emergencies in backcountry settings. CPR-C is included, along with prevention and treatment for hypothermia, heat illness, choking, and more.
What is the Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA) course?
WAFA is a 40-hour course that blends 20 hours of online study with 20 hours of hands-on instruction. It’s designed for people who spend extended time in remote areas and want more comprehensive first aid training.
Book online, or contact our office with any questions at 1-604-938-9242 or info@mountainskillsacademy.com.
Next Steps
Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
Canada’s top-tier, professional wilderness responder training for those taking on a professional role in wilderness environments or those who spend extensive time adventuring in remote environments
Wilderness First Aid (WFA)
Don’t know where to start? Start here! This is a fun, engaging course that introduces you to the principles of wilderness first aid, making it ideal for casual campers or day hikers.
Important Details
Season:
Spring & Fall
Location:
Squamish
Duration:
2.5 Days
Prerequisites:
None