LaSalle Council Scouting America
Wilderness First Aid Training 2026
What is wilderness first aid?
Wilderness first aid, or “WFA”, is a generic term that commonly refers to any training course that focuses
on prevention, assessment, and treatment for an ill or injured person in a remote environment where
definitive care by a physician and/or rapid transport is not readily available. This is defined as being an
hour or more away from advanced care. WFA courses are intended for anyone planning a remote high
adventure, from lay responders to medical professionals.
Who needs WFA?
Youth (14 years old and up) and adult Scout leaders are encouraged to take a 16-hour WFA course based
on the specific curriculum developed by Scouting America, which includes a management dimension
that most course fail to address. Participants will likely find it the most valuable program they’ll ever
take.
All four of Scouting America high-adventure bases (HAB) require at least one person per trek (two per
trek at Philmont Scout Ranch) to be current in WFA through one of Scouting America approved
providers. Of course, having more participants trained in WFA skills is highly recommended for any high
adventure or backcountry experience.
Scouting America has identified the following providers as meeting Scouting America’s requirements
for WFA training:
- American Red Cross (ARC)
- 16 hr in person training
- Emergency Care & Safety Institute (ECSI)
- 16 hr blended learning
- 8 hr self-paced online training
- 8 hr in person training
- 16 hr blended learning
WFA Certification Requirements
- Current certificate for CPR/AED
- 14+ years old
- Current Scouting America registration
Course Options
- January 10-11, 2026
LaSalle Council Service Center, South Bend, IN
Wilderness & Remote First Aid (ARC)
16 hr Classroom training with some outdoor scenarios - March 7, 2026
Wilderness First Aid (ECSI)
8 hr self-paced online training
8 hr in person outdoor skills training at Camp Topenebee - May 30-31, 2026
Wilderness & Remote First Aid (ARC)
16 hr in person all outdoor training at Camp Topenebee
Backpacking course with overnight camping required
For more information:
- Scouting America Wilderness First Aid guidance: https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/wilderness-fa/
- LaSalle Council courses contact: Ed Witte | 219-616-6252 | ewwitte@comcast.net
