AIARE Avalanche Rescue is a 1 day stand alone course that is intended to be retaken on a regular basis in order to keep abreast of best practices in rescue techniques and gear. New participants will learn the basics of companion rescue, while returning participants will expand their skill set with advanced topics and realistic scenario practice to help improve their skills. Each participant will have the opportunity to receive professional coaching on their rescue skills, and will receive a rescue card acknowledging the completion date. AIARE Avalanche Rescue is a prerequisite for the AIARE 2 course. SMG and AIARE recommend that all backcountry travelers keep their skills current by taking an Avalanche Rescue course and receiving a rescue card at least every other year.
The Synnott Mountain Guides AIARE classes are led by Mark Synnott (AMGA/IFMGA Mountain Guide) and Nick Aiello-Popeo (AIARE 3 Certified & AIARE Instructor). Mark, Nick, and the other instructors are able to not only teach the AIARE standard curriculum, but also draw on their own personal experiences and passion for avalanche awareness to prepare you for your own adventures.
The AIARE Avalanche Rescue course cost is $275 and avalanche safety equipment (transceiver/shovel/probe) will be provided by SMG for use during the course (however, you are encouraged to bring your own). The course is best booked online, but you may also book via email or phone. You may book multiple people and pay in one order, but please complete this booking form for each person so we have full details. After booking your course, you’ll receive an email with details about the course schedule and other resources.
To find out about the 2024/2025 season AIARE Avalanche Rescue courses, please sign up for our email list, follow us on Facebook/Instagram, or contact us.
Who Should Take this Course
The Avalanche Rescue Course is a one-day course aimed both at new and experienced recreational backcountry travelers and aspiring avalanche professionals.
Student Learning Outcomes
At the end of the Avalanche Rescue course the student should be able to:
- Describe what to do if they or a member of their party is caught in an avalanche.
- Identify and be able to use gear necessary for avalanche rescue.
- Set up a realistic scenario in order to practice an avalanche rescue response.
- Improve their response skills and times during and after the course with feedback from instructors and peers.
- Develop a plan for continuing practice.
- All students will have the opportunity to get feedback from an instructor on their rescue skills and timed practice in a realistic scenario.
Students who have previously taken an AIARE 1 or an Avalanche Rescue Course will find value in having a professional help them set up realistic scenarios, practice skills in a realistic setting, receive feedback from an instructor, keep up with current best practices, and have an opportunity to practice advanced rescue skills.
Prerequisites
Students must be able to travel in the snow, and bring appropriate equipment (backcountry skis, splitboard, snowshoes, etc.) for traveling on snow to class. There are no other prerequisites.
Equipment
Please see the SMG AIARE Gear List (PDF). We will supply you with beacon, probe and shovel, but if you have your own, please let us know.
Our typical schedule includes meeting at the Synnott Mountain Guides office at 8:00 AM, dressed and packed for a field day. We’ll conclude the day around 4:30 PM.
2023/2024 FAQs.
What is your COVID-19 policy?
We will be continually monitoring the changing COVID-19 situation and will let you know about COVID-19 guidelines when we reach out about course specifics.
How large will groups be?
Our field groups typically consist of seven people, including the instructor. Private courses are available if you inquire very early in the season, and pricing will vary.
