When it comes to exploring nature, accidents can happen. That’s why camping experts from the West Virginia University Extension Service 4-H Youth and Development program are offering first aid certification courses to outdoor leaders and enthusiasts looking to learn first aid and improve upon basic backcountry living skills.

Hosted at WVU Jackson’s Mill in Weston, the Wilderness First Aid Stonehearth Open Learning Opportunities Certification Course will take place Tuesday, March 22 through Wednesday, March 23.

According to Matthew Schm�ck, WVU Extension Service camping and experiential education specialist, the course is being offered to support Jacksons Mill’s new outdoor education area, designed specifically for camping, fishing and shooting sports.

“This is a great opportunity for anyone who spends large amounts of time outdoors, but especially for agents, Extension camp instructors and volunteers who are offering outdoor recreation activities in their county,” said Schm�ck. “Outdoor leaders—especially those responsible for youths—need to know what to do in case of an emergency, and this course will provide them with the resources they need to do just that.”

The Wilderness First Aid SOLO course fee is $300. For those who possess a certification and are looking to get recertified, the Wilderness First Responder course is $315.

Both courses include three nights of dorm lodging and six meals. The WFA course is a two-day, 16-hour learning experience. Both courses include an ongoing evaluation of practical skills, written assessments and a final exam.

Interested individuals can register online at bit.ly/WVUExtWFACourse.

Participants who complete the course will receive a SOLO WFA certification, which is good for two years. Course topics include how to deal with medical emergencies such as asthma, temperature-induced conditions, trauma and other vital first response skills.

For more information, contact Matthew Schm�ck at 304-406-7014 or Matthew.Schmuck@mail.wvu.edu, or Brittany Furbee at 304-293-2696 or bfurbee@mail.wvu.edu.

-WVU-

bd/01/22/15

CONTACT: Cassie Thomas, WVU Extension Service
304.293.4221, Cassie.Thomas@mail.wvu.edu

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