The Central Division
Avalanche Program
NSP Avalanche Education: Training for the Front Lines
The NSP Avalanche Program aims to deliver top-tier avalanche safety and rescue education tailored to the specific needs of patrollers, mountain search and rescue teams, and snow recreation professionals. To meet this goal, the program offers a range of courses designed to address varying stakeholder requirements and geographic conditions.
From Awareness to Expertise: NSP’s Avalanche Course Lineup
Aligned with American Avalanche Association (A3) standards, the program features five key courses: Avalanche Awareness, Companion Rescue, Level I, Level II, and a specialized avalanche elective for senior-level patrollers.
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Northern Michigan Region
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John Yunger
Southern Region
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Summary of Recent Changes (11/23)
Time Commitment Adjustments: The time commitments for several courses, including Avalanche Awareness, Companion Rescue, and the Level 1 and Level 2 modules, were adjusted to align with A3 guidelines.
Instructor Requirements: New requirements specify that Level 1 Instructors of Record (IORs) must be Professional Members of A3, ensuring instructors meet professional standards recognized by both NSP and A3.
Operational Risk Management Checklist: A new checklist was added to the Risk Management section, following recommendations from A3 to enhance safety during courses.
Clarifications for Level 2 Course: The description of the Level 2 course was updated to clarify that it is distinct from a Recreational Level 2 course, highlighting its focus on professional rescue personnel.