Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum and maximum size of classes?
Minimum class size is five participants. Maximum class size depends on the type of course. Most classes are capped at ten participants but there is the possibility of adding additional instructors, which would allow for more participants.
Are these events handicap-accessible?
At this time, all indoor training sessions are held in wheelchair accessible venues. Some courses may include instruction on how to perform rescues and moves that may present a challenge to someone with a physical handicap. The participant is normally expected to be able to stand, kneel, bend, lift, etc. There are skill stations to practice the lessons learned which may include performing a physical assessment, performing chest compressions, and other physical acts. We will try to be accommodating to all participants; please notify us ahead of time of any physical or other impairments.
Outdoor events may take place in areas that are not wheelchair accessible. It is the responsibility of the participant to know their abilities and whether they are able to traverse trails, rocks, or other wild terrain. Please contact us if you want to attend an outdoor event but are unsure of your ability to participate.
Is there an age limit, are minors allowed?
All participants under the age of 18 need a permission form/liability waiver signed by a parent/guardian. All participants under the age of 16 must also be accompanied by an adult. Additionally, the student must be mature enough to discuss health and death. Please fill out a separate Permission Form Request for each student.
What is ECSI?
Is certification from ECSI valid?
Will my job accept ECSI certification?
ECSI stands for the Emergency Care & Safety Institute. ECSI helps instructors offer high-quality courses at an affordable price. ECSI training courses are offered in association with the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) and the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) - two of the most renowned medical organizations in the world.
ECSI certifications are valid for two years.
ECSI certifications are accepted by state health departments across the USA, from Pennsylvania to Alaska. ECSI certification is recognized by national organizations such as the American Camp Association and the Boy Scouts of America. Please note that some employers may still require certification from a specific organization.
Do I need a book AND a field guide for wilderness courses?
The reference materials are the same for Wilderness Medical Aid and Wilderness Trauma Aid. If attending both classes, or if attending Wilderness First Aid - Standard, you do not have to select a guide and a book, though it is recommended. Naturally, the book goes into more detail while the guide is more portable.
Who should attend "Stop the Bleed"?
But I'm already an EMS professional.
Non-medical community members: One of the first things we teach in Stop the Bleed is how to recognize what is life-threatening bleeding. If someone has life-threatening bleeding, they could die before trained EMS professionals even arrive. But with the right training and confidence, you can help save a life by providing aid immediately.
Medical personnel: Skills degrade over time, so we should periodically train for high-risk / low frequency situations.
Also, you should only practice with tourniquets that have been designated as training tourniquets. Tourniquets are a single-use disposable item that can fail if applied repeatedly. You should not put repeated stress on an item that is expected to save a life during an emergency. Come practice with our designated training tourniquets instead.