Hyak Ski Patrol requires advanced training in several emergency care subjects. We offer most of this training for free or very low cost for our volunteers. By joining ski patrol, you will have the opportunity to learn new skills, sharpen your existing skills, and get mentorship from other experienced rescuers who share your passion for the mountains.

Outdoor Emergency Care

Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) are taught to all candidates between September and December. The course is taught by doctors, medical specialists and OEC instructors every year, or as candidates are identified and additional patrollers are required. Learn more about Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) training here.

Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation / Automated External Defibrillators

In 2015 the American Heart Association updated their recommended CPR procedures to focus on providing chest compressions before airway management.

Keep compression rate of at least 100 minutes for all persons. Keep compression depth of between 2-2.4 inches for adults and children and about 1.5 inches for infants. Allow complete chest recoil after each compression. Minimize interruptions in CPR, except to use an AED or to change rescuer positions.

Chairlift Evacuation / On-The-Hill

On-the-hill (OTH) is a full day that includes an update on area protocols and an opportunity to refresh skills in chairlift evacuation. This includes communication, rope handling and belay techniques.

Toboggan Training

Outdoor Emergency Transportation (OET) is unique to the National Ski Patrol. Learn more about Outdoor Emergency Transportation (OET) here.

Avalanche Training

Ski Patrollers get unique Avalanche Rescue training that exceeds the standards of AIARE. Learn more about National Ski Patrol’s Avalanche Training here.

Mountain Travel and Rescue

Ski Patrollers can attend unique training for backcountry travel and rescue in mountain environments through the NSPs Mountain Travel and Rescue course. Many Hyak Ski Patrollers are also Search and Rescue unit members and part of King County Ski Patrol Rescue Team (SPART) If you’re interested in improving your alpine travel, and rescue skills you can learn more about the Mountain Travel and Rescue (MTR) program here.