Introduction to Companion Rescue Basics

The Introduction to Companion Rescue class teaches you the skills needed to rescue a buried avalanche victim. You learn search techniques and how to effectively use your rescue gear, how to manage a group and work together as a team. We’ll cover common mistakes made during rescues and what to do once a buried partner is uncovered.

Hands-on practice is key when it comes to learning these skills. We spend the majority of this course on snow practicing with your rescue equipment and going through rescue scenarios. We have a 6:1 student to instructor ratio to make sure that each student receives coaching on their technique and the opportunity to run through multiple scenarios.

You must have a beacon, shovel, probe (and headlamp). Dress warm and bring the pack and contents you would normally have with you when you head into the backcountry for a day. We will be moving around on foot so you do not need to bring your skis, snowmobiles, snowboards or snowshoes.

This course does not qualify as an 8-hour Avalanche Rescue Course prerequisite required for Professional 1 courses.

Who should take this course? This class is for skiers, snowboarders, resort riders, snowmobilers, snowbikers, hikers, snowshoers - anyone who goes into the backcountry in winter. This course is designed as an introduction for those who are new to the backcountry. It can serve as a refresher for those who do not regularly practice rescue skills or for someone looking to learn the most up to date rescue techniques.

What is required for this course? This is an introductory level course and therefore can be your first avalanche education course. For this course, you are required to provide your own avalanche rescue equipment. You’ll need a modern 457 kHz Digital 3-Antenna beacon, a collapsible probe 240 cm or longer,  a solid collapsible metal shovel, and a backpack to carry your equipment. Make sure that you are familiar with how to assemble your probe and shovel, turn your beacon on and off and into search/send modes. If you need to purchase rescue equipment you can do so here. A portion of your sale benefits the Utah Avalanche Center.

Cancellation policy: Our classes generally fill up.  If you can't attend the class, please let us know by 5:00 PM Friday the week before your course for a partial refund- We will refund all but $15. If you cancel after that but more than 24 hours before the evening class, we'll refund all but $25 of your fee. After 5 pm the day before class, there will be no refund.  If you register for a course but need to transfer to another course date there will be a $15 charge.