Disaster + Wilderness First Aid Course [Free for Uva Academic Employees! Reimbursable for Trip Leaders!]

OVERVIEW

Learn how to save life and limb in an
> urban disaster (natural or terrorist)
> rural area (not near a hospital)
> anywhere you’re out traveling
> wilderness area

CHOOSE one set of dates/locations (2 days, 8:30am-6:30pm both days):
> March 1 – 2: Princeton, NJ* (near Philadelphia)
> March 8 – 9: Knoxville, TN*
> March 22-23: Washington, DC
> May 3 – 4: Blacksburg, VA*
> May 10-11: CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA* at UVa School of Medicine
> May 31 – June 1: Richmond, VA*
> June 7 – 8: Washington, DC
> June 21-22: Madison, NJ* (near New York City)
> June 28-29: Virginia Beach, VA*
> Aug. 12-20: W.F.Responder course (9 days) near Spruce Knob, WV

*Charitable Donation: a nonprofit organization of Blue Ridge Mountain Sports’ choice will receive 10% of proceeds.

Outdoors at UVAers $25 DISCOUNT off the regular $180.

BONUS if you’re a trip leader: Earn your course FEE BACK BY REIMBURSEMENT! Details: www.outdoorsatuva.org/resources/?WildernessFirstAid

FREE FOR UVA EMPLOYEES! Most academic employees can take this class for free! Register and pay for the class to save yourself a spot, then apply for Education Benefits program reimbursement: http://hr.virginia.edu/hr-for-you/university-staff/university-staff-benefits/education-benefits/
The money will come back to you in your paycheck (quite possibly your next paycheck, or at longest within about a month of applying). Note: this benefit does not apply to Health System employees — just academic.

Spaces limited, classes sometimes fill up. The last Charlottesville class had a wait list of 8 people.
REGISTER AT: www.solowfa.com
More info below.

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OVERVIEW:
> No prerequisites
> For adults and focused youths ages 12+. Know your loved ones are safe wherever they are.
> Hands-on learn how to care for an injured / ill person during the critical minutes or hours before ambulance / hospital arrival
> Blend of classroom instruction & hands-on rescue scenario practice
> Approved by the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) and the American Camping Association (ACA)
> 2-year SOLO WFA certification
> Counts as recertification for WFA, AWFA, WFR and wilderness part of W-EMT
> Flyer: http://www.solowfa.com/forms/dwfa-flyer.pdf
> Testimonials: see below

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WHY:
Mired in an urban disaster zone, rural living or car crash far from hospital, or natural area miles from an access point … accidents and terrorism happen, and all-too-often members of a group are not capable of dealing with the emergency. Not only does this lead to improper care of the patient, but it also endangers the entire group. Studies have shown that many recreational accidents are preventable, and that improper care of trauma can compound even the simplest of injuries. Through our involvement in emergency medicine and rescue efforts, we at SOLO feel there is a need for training for all people – training which stresses preparedness and prevention; training which encompasses all phases of off-road emergencies; training which focuses on extended care issues in prolonged transport situations. Very few first aid programs actually address the issues of providing emergency care in an urban disaster when 911 is overwhelmed or not reachable, or in a rural, wilderness, or extended care setting. In this course, classroom instruction and Q&A are interwoven with practical work and problem-solving exercises. Hands-on experience — a most powerful learning tool — during scenarios comprise ~50% of the class. You come away with actual do-it-yourself care-giving confidence.

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TOPICS:
> Beyond the ‘golden hour’: wilderness/disaster-delayed EMS arrival injury challenges and long-term patient care
> Patient Assessment System: thorough patient examination, treatment, monitoring, safety, and documentation
> Orthopedic Injuries and Treatment: Sprains, Strains, Fractures, and Spinal Cord Management
> Circulatory System Form and Function: Heart, Blood, Blood Vessels, Lungs, Brain
> Soft Tissue Injuries and Wound Treatment: Contusions, Abrasions, Lacerations, Flap Avulsions, Amputation, Punctures, Impalements,
> Bites, Stings, Blisters, Burns, and Infections
> Environmental Injuries and Treatment: Cold, Heat, Dehydration and Wilderness Survival
> Medical Emergencies and Critical Care: Shock, Allergies, Shortness of Breath, Brain and Heart
> Patient movement: spinal cord precautions and clearing; pre- and post-evacuation treatment

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TESTIMONIALS (those without names are from post-course anonymous feedback forms)

“The course blew my expectations out of the water.” April 2013

“I was … in denial about what could go wrong in a hike. I feel much more prepared now. Everyone who hikes should take this course!” March 2008

“It was the *very best* first aid I ever attended and I’ve attended many.” March 2012

“The numerous examples of hands-on practice in evaluating, moving and treating patients gave us lots of practice in applying what we learned.” October 2007

“Best instructor on the East Coast (based on 4 other courses).” December 2012

“The encyclopedia knowledge of the instructor. The instructor’s willingness to address questions, and willingness to provide individualized attention.” November 2012

“When I walked in the door, the idea of being responsible for someone in a backcountry {or disaster} medical emergency was terrifying. Now I feel confident that I can help.” March 2008

“Shortly after receiving my WFA cert … I was one of the first to arrive at the rolled SUV and assessed the scene. Most of the emergent volunteers were milling around the SUV, wondering what to do … I took control to treat her … Police and fire/rescue had not yet arrived, although plenty of 911 calls went out … I credit being able to successfully treat my ‘patient’ to your WFA training.” Ian K., 6/5/2008

“Take the class, Save a life!” July 2008

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>> More testimonials: http://www.solowfa.com/course-reviews-MEDIC-SOLO-disaster-wilderness-first-aid.htm

>> Facebook: www.facebook.com/medicwfa

>> REGISTRATION ONLINE + More Info: www.solowfa.com