Course Overview (now a 3 day course, more info to come soon)

This three-day course was piloted by SAS for the 2025-2026 winter season and refined for the 2026-2027 season. This course will become a Pro 2 prerequisite in the coming years and SAS is one of the few providers offering the program since it’s inception.

The training builds upon the basic skills introduced in the companion rescue course, which is part of A3's REC progression. Participants will learn advanced applications of the tools, techniques, tactics, and technology used by rescue professionals in avalanche terrain. 

This course is an excellent opportunity for recreationalists who want to bridge knowledge and competency gaps, as well as for aspiring professional rescuers on search and rescue (SAR) teams or ski patrols.

Successful students will receive certification and recognition from SAS and A3 upon completing this professional development program. We anticipate that this course will become a prerequisite for future A3 ProAvSAR programs.

A3 Provided Program Information & Description

Prerequisites: A3-recognized Recreational Level 1, Avalanche Rescue, BLS-CPR certificate

Professional level training designed for current and aspiring avalanche workers preparing students to be a contributing member on an avalanche incident response, capable of leading a strike team/task force in the field. Course focuses on the individual technical skills to solve simple to complex multiple burials of subjects with and without a transceiver through the search, excavation and extraction phases.

Specifics - Six Curriculum Focus Areas including: Response Theory & Plans, Scene Assessment, Search Techniques, Evacuation Techniques, Extraction Tactics and Post Incident/Accident Considerations plus a written evaluation and Skills Scenario exam.

Time - 32 contact hours for certification (includes pre-course, online & field days)

Class Size - 6:1 student/staff ratio to a maximum of 12 students