2026 Wilderness First Aid
May 30-31, 2026
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Schapiro Scout Service Center
 

Date:  May 30 & 31, 2026  (MUST attend both days to complete the course)

Cost:  $65.00

Lunch is NOT provided.  Please plan on bringing lunch or visiting a nearby restaurant.

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.

Why is WFA important?

WFA prepares participants to identify and address medical issues that can arise in the backcountry.

WFA is not just for the backcountry.  It is just as relevant in urban areas during hurricanes, floods, fires, or mass casualty events when emergency services might be strained.  WFA knowledge can be lifesaving.

“When an emergency occurs in the wild, the goal must be to provide the greatest good for the greatest number in the shortest time, and do no harm in the process.”

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.

High Adventure Base WFA Requirements

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.