Wilderness First Responder
March 31- April 4, 2025
Join Dunes Learning Center and Wilderness Medical Associates International to get your Wilderness First Responder certification! Course participants will learn how to provide emergency care in the wilderness where access to medical care is delayed or communication is unreliable. It is the industry standard for professional guides, trip leaders, search and rescue team members, outdoor recreationists, and international travelers.
This WFR course combines online interactive learning followed by five days of in-person training. The e-learning section includes modules with readings, videos, self-practice assignments, quizzes and case studies. It is recommended to enroll in this course at least 4 weeks prior to the in person training date so that you have enough time to complete the e-learning section before the in-person portion begins. The five-day in-person course will involve lectures, hands on skills practice and patient simulations and a final test.
Upon completion, you will be able to conduct a thorough physical exam, obtain a patient history, assess vital signs, provide emergency care in the wilderness, and make crucial evacuation decisions. You’ll learn both in the classroom and in outdoor settings regardless of weather, so come prepared for wet, muddy, cold, or hot environments! This course is a pass/fail. 100% attendance is mandatory.
The program fee includes instruction, textbooks, equipment use, certification, and continuing education credits.
Course Cost:
$999 – Basic Package (includes program fee and meals)
$1,199 – Full Package (includes program fee, meals, and overnight lodging for 5 nights)
Recertification may be added at a later date!
Questions? Please contact Erin Crofton at ecrofton@duneslearningcenter.org
Course Outline
For the full course outline, visit: Wilderness Medical Associates International Hybrid Wilderness First Responder
Class Format and Personal Preparedness
Course days run from 8:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. The class format is classroom lectures integrated with practical scenarios, case studies, and skills practice sessions. Attendance is required at all classes.
Scenarios and practice sessions will take place both inside and outside. Bring outdoor clothing appropriate for lying on the potentially wet, snowy, or cold ground playing the role of both rescuer and patient. There will be times when we are outdoors for several hours. Stage (moulage) blood and make-up are frequently used to enhance the realism of a scenario and everyone is expected to bring their inner theatrical voice to the experience. The classroom environment generally lends itself to a pair of comfy shoes or slippers and you are welcome to bring a camp cushion or chair if you need a little extra support for the week.
Packing Checklist
Completed Study Guide to show the course instructor
Notebook and pencil or pen
Watch with second hand or digital second
Sunglasses and hat
Water bottle
Headlamp or flashlight
Daypack containing general gear of what you would bring on a day hike or short overnight
Waterproof outerwear top and bottom
Clothing layers that allow you to be comfortable in a variety of weather options
Outdoor footwear that is protective, comfortable and waterproof/resistant
Footwear to wear indoors (we will keep our muddy shoes out of the indoor learning space)
Camp chair (optional)
Insect repellent
Personal Toiletries
Towel and washcloth
Sleeping Bag and Pillow (or other bedding)
Snacks (no food is allowed in the cabins and we are a nut free facility)
About Dunes Learning Center Lodging
Participants will sleep in our cabins with comfortable bunk beds, heat and air conditioning, and private toilets and showers. No more than 4 people will be assigned to each cabin, so need to sleep on the upper bunk. More photos >
