What is wilderness first aid?
Wilderness first aid, or “WFA”, is a generic term that commonly refers to any training course that focuses on prevention, assessment, and treatment for an ill or injured person in a remote environment where definitive care by a physician and/or rapid transport is not readily available. This is defined as being an hour or more away from advanced care. WFA courses are intended for anyone planning a remote high adventure, from lay responders to medical professionals.

Who needs WFA?
Youth (14 years old and up) and adult Scout leaders are encouraged to take a 16-hour WFA course based on the specific curriculum developed by Scouting America, which includes a management dimension that most course fail to address. Participants will likely find it the most valuable program they’ll ever take.

All four of Scouting America high-adventure bases (HAB) require at least one person per trek (two per trek at Philmont Scout Ranch) to be current in WFA through one of Scouting America approved providers. Of course, having more participants trained in WFA skills is highly recommended for any high adventure or backcountry experience.

Scouting America has identified the following providers as meeting Scouting America’s requirements
for WFA training:

American Red Cross (ARC)

16 hour in person training

Emergency Care & Safety Institute (ECSI)16 hour blended learning

8 hour self-paced online training

8 hour in person training

WFA Certification Requirements

Current certificate for CPR/AED

14+ years old

Current Scouting America registration

May 30-31, 2026: Registration closes on Friday, May 22nd
Course Option: Wilderness & Remote First Aid (ARC)
Location: Camp ToPeNeBee 0377 N Holmesville Rd, Michigan City, IN 46360
Time Commitment:  16 hour in person all outdoor training at Camp ToPeNeBee & Backpacking course with overnight camping required
 

For more information:

Scouting America Wilderness First Aid guidance:  https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/wilderness-fa/

LaSalle Council course contact: Ed Witte | 219-616-6252 | ewwitte@comcast.net