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

Generally, WFA courses contain substantial medical information and teach skills to respond to medical emergencies in the wild. It is important to remember that many providers offer “wilderness first aid” courses, but the courses vary in content, duration, accreditation, and other factors. 

A BSA-led task force developed a WFA training curriculum specifically for Scouts and Scouters to help them provide assessment and treatment miles from advanced care.  More information on the curriculum is below.  

Treatment skills are important, but so is educating Scouts and adult leaders to recognize illnesses early and minimize the potential for injury. The skills learned in a BSA-approved WFA course can save lives.

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.

Also see flyer from the instructor in the document files.