This is an AIARE Level 1 hybrid avalanche safety course that takes place over two days on Mt. Hood along with self-paced online learning and a 2 hour online lecture.
This course has been organized by the Mazamas, and will be directed by lead instructor Mick Pearson (founder/guide) of KAF Adventures (Seattle, WA).
Please contact help@mazamas.org with any questions.
Who Should Take this Course?
The AIARE 1 is for anyone, regardless of the method of backcountry travel, who wants to recreate in or near avalanche terrain. Participants may have attended some awareness classes or workshops or completed the Avalanche Rescue course, but none are a prerequisite for this course. This course is open to both Mazama members, and the general public, with an open registration first-come-first-serve basis for acceptance.
Prerequisites:
Students must be able to travel in avalanche terrain and bring appropriate equipment and know how to use it, for traveling on snow during the class. Students should also bring and use appropriate clothing/layers/gear for snow conditions and typical weather of the Pacific Northwest found on Mt. Hood. There are no other prerequisites.
Student Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the AIARE 1 course, the student should be able to:
- Develop a plan for travel in avalanche terrain.
- Demonstrate the ability to identify avalanche terrain.
- Effectively use The AIARE Risk Management Framework to make terrain choices in a group setting.
- Demonstrate effective companion rescue.
Class Material included:
Online course material, Student handbook, Field notebook, virtual lectures and field instruction.
Avalanche Gear Included (if needed):
For students who don't have access to avalanche safety equipment, the Mazamas will provide transceivers, shovels, and probes for the duration of the program included in the price of the course. However, it's strongly recommended that students use their own equipment (or use borrowed/rented equipment that they are considering purchasing) for this class so they can practice with that particular gear in a controlled environment. Please bring your beacon's user manual if you're unsure how it operates.
Not Included:
Transportation to field location, lodging and food, snowshoes, poles, touring equipment. A detailed required equipment list will be sent to all participants once they sign up.
SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION
We are not able to offer scholarships for AIARE courses this year. If a payment plan would make taking this course possible for you, please contact help@mazamas.org to set up a schedule before you register for the course.