Avalanche Skills Training 1

Refresher

Our AST Refresher Program Organization

Pre-Reading material

A full list of the material to read will be send to you at the time of booking the program, so you could review and read at your own pace.

1 On-Line zoom session (from 6.30pm to 8.30pm)

We will use this time to review knowledge and prepare the field day so we have the best outcome for that day.

  • Review your level of knowledge and experience.

  • Review agenda for next day.

  • Waivers and risk management

  • Winter travel backcountry hazards and risks.

  • Avalanche events and their effect on us. 

  • Plan and logistic for next day.

1 Field day (from 8.00 am to 4.30pm)

During the zoom session we will define we are we going as well where are we meeting. The idea is to find the best place according to conditions and group level and needs. Some of the topics we could review during the field day includes but is not limited to:

  • Review how to use the avalanche forecast to mitigate avalanche risk

  • Review decision making and risk management in avalanche terrain

  • Review route selection, terrain assessment, and travel protocols

  • Practice companion rescue skills

  • Discuss updates to the AST 1 curriculum

Our AST Refresher Program Details

  • Ratio:  1 Instructor to a maximum of 8 students (minimum 4 required to run the course).

  • Cost: $149.00 per person + GST.

  • Cost includes: Guide/Instructor and teaching material.

  • Cost does not include: Transportation to the area, food and technical gear.

  • Instructional material: Provided once registered.

  • Pre-registration required: For more details please contact us at guides@paramount-guides.com

Avalanche Skills Training 1 Refresher or AST-1 Refresher, is aimed at individuals who have completed an AST 1 course and are looking to refresh their skills and knowledge. This one day, field-based course provides a review of the material covered in the AST 1 course and includes a discussion of industry updates.

Additional information

Please keep in mind that prior to heading out for our AST 1 refresher Program all participants are required to read and agree to waiver terms and conditions prior to booking completion. In the case of the AST programs there are two waivers, one for the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides, and another for Avalanche Canada, both of which can be found at paramount-guides.com/waivers

Our field day takes place in a backcountry winter environment. Conditions can be harsh, and you need to be dressed appropriately. Being warm and comfortable will enhance your learning experience.

This course is designed to provide a good basis for learning and is not meant to be overly, physically challenging.

Logistical details

  • Transportation: You should provide your own transportation to trailhead

  • Food: Bring snacks and a lunch, plus 1 to 2 litres, ideally hot drinks.

  • Clothing: For the field day you should come prepared for a full day in the outdoors.

Equipment List:

  • Ski Touring gear or Split board with skins

  • Day pack large enough to hold spare clothes, lunch, shovel and probe.

  • Avalanche transceiver in good order and batteries over 50%.

  • Collapsible Avalanche shovel and probe

  • Personal 1st-Aid Kit for small blister (our guide carries a 1st-Aid Kit for emergencies, plus a communication device).

  • Warm clothing

  • Extra glove and sun glasses