Becoming a ski patrol is a significant commitment. It takes a lot of time to learn the Advanced First Aid skills required to be a member of the CSPS. However, the time you invest into training to become a ski patrol will result in enhanced skills, increased confidence and a well-earned sense of giving back to the community.
First Aid Training
In your first year as a ski patrol you will be required to do approximately 48 hours of Advanced First Aid training. This is spread over three weekends. This training is required even if you have a medical background.
First Aid is taught by your fellow ski-patrollers. Training is NOT 48 hours of listening to boring lectures. There is lots of opportunity to get hands on and practice the skills you will be learning.
Training is offered in the Fall, before the ski season starts, and again in the Spring.
On-Snow Training
Your on-snow training will take approximately 8 hours. (The time required will depend partly on your skiing/snowboarding level of expertise.)
You’ll learn how to load a toboggan and the techniques required to get it safely down the hill.
Shift Commitment
Each ski patroller does approximately 15 shifts per season. A shift is either a Thursday, Friday, Saturday evening or a Saturday, Sunday day. There are additional shifts during the Holiday season and March break.
Returning Patroller Commitments
Each fall you will be required to dedicate 24 hours (a choice of three separate weekend days) to re-certification and testing.
Fundraising
In order to pay for all the first aid supplies the ski patrol raises money through volunteering at your annual Ski Swap and Sale and other fundraisers. Each patroller is required to do 8 hours of fundraising each year.
