Introduction
Sponsors are the backbone of our courses and work in partnership with the WMTC office, WMTC Licensed Providers, the course instructors, and the students. This page is intended to provide you with enough information to sponsor a course with the us. Use this page in conjunction with the rest of our web site. It is intended to reduce confusion and attend to potential glitches before they become problems. There is quite a lot of detail. If you have any questions please contact our office so that they can be quickly resolved. Please note that courses can be taught on expedition (river, remote basecamps, etc.). WMTC has developed a reputation for both flexibility and excellence in adapting our course curriculum to remote sites. Electricity is NOT required. That said, keep in mind that video and digital presentations are not available without some form of electricity (solar, generator, etc.).
Sponsors are the backbone of our courses and work in partnership with the WMTC office, WMTC Licensed Providers, the course instructors, and the students. This page is intended to provide you with enough information to sponsor a course with the us. Use this page in conjunction with the rest of our web site. It is intended to reduce confusion and attend to potential glitches before they become problems. There is quite a lot of detail. If you have any questions please contact our office so that they can be quickly resolved. Please note that courses can be taught on expedition (river, remote basecamps, etc.). WMTC has developed a reputation for both flexibility and excellence in adapting our course curriculum to remote sites. Electricity is NOT required. That said, keep in mind that video and digital presentations are not available without some form of electricity (solar, generator, etc.).
Scheduling & Contracting Your Course
The actual scheduling process is simple. Complete our Inquiry Form. Upon receipt one of our office staff will contact you to set up a time to discuss your course and options. At that point we will reach out to all WMTC Licensed Providers that match your course requirements and they will contact you to schedule a contracting call. You will receive a copy of a contract via email. Print and sign two copies; return one to the provider's office. Once they receive the signed contract we will officially schedule your course. If your course is open to the public, we will list it on our website course schedule, design a custom page for it, and then link to a registration form. Alternately, you may contact a specific WMTC Licensed Provider from the list below.
All WMTC Licensed Providers are independent companies owned an operated by certified WMTC instructors licensed to deliver WMTC curriculum and certifications. Contracted tuition for all courses within the United States are standardized; however, travel, lodging, and meal expenses may vary depending upon location, as will the final retail cost.
The actual scheduling process is simple. Complete our Inquiry Form. Upon receipt one of our office staff will contact you to set up a time to discuss your course and options. At that point we will reach out to all WMTC Licensed Providers that match your course requirements and they will contact you to schedule a contracting call. You will receive a copy of a contract via email. Print and sign two copies; return one to the provider's office. Once they receive the signed contract we will officially schedule your course. If your course is open to the public, we will list it on our website course schedule, design a custom page for it, and then link to a registration form. Alternately, you may contact a specific WMTC Licensed Provider from the list below.
All WMTC Licensed Providers are independent companies owned an operated by certified WMTC instructors licensed to deliver WMTC curriculum and certifications. Contracted tuition for all courses within the United States are standardized; however, travel, lodging, and meal expenses may vary depending upon location, as will the final retail cost.
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Deposit & Canceling a Course
A deposit (specified in the contract) is typically due two months (60 days) prior to the scheduled course start of a standard course and months earlier for hybrid courses. In most cases, a $200 course registration fee is due and forfeit if you cancel a course six plus months prior to the scheduled course start. 50% of the deposit plus applicable instructor travel and material expenses is due and forfeit if you cancel a course within six months of the scheduled course start. 100% of the deposit plus applicable instructor travel and material expenses is due and forfeit if you cancel a course within three months of the scheduled course start.
Canceling courses is hard for everyone — you, students, us — and WMTC Licensed Providers will do everything in their power to prevent it. If a course doesn't meet minimum enrollment we would prefer to reschedule rather than cancel it. We are in this for the long run and want you along for the ride.
A deposit (specified in the contract) is typically due two months (60 days) prior to the scheduled course start of a standard course and months earlier for hybrid courses. In most cases, a $200 course registration fee is due and forfeit if you cancel a course six plus months prior to the scheduled course start. 50% of the deposit plus applicable instructor travel and material expenses is due and forfeit if you cancel a course within six months of the scheduled course start. 100% of the deposit plus applicable instructor travel and material expenses is due and forfeit if you cancel a course within three months of the scheduled course start.
Canceling courses is hard for everyone — you, students, us — and WMTC Licensed Providers will do everything in their power to prevent it. If a course doesn't meet minimum enrollment we would prefer to reschedule rather than cancel it. We are in this for the long run and want you along for the ride.
Paying for Your Course
Each course will be invoiced via email as detailed in your contract. Late charges of 2% per month may be charged to all late payments. In addition, you must agree to pay any and all reasonable court and legal fees necessary to enforce the contract. If the deposit is not received the contract will be cancelled and you will be billed as above.
In most cases, you have the option to pay by check, money order, certified bank check, by credit card, or direct deposit. A 4% surcharge will be added to your invoice if you choose to pay using a credit card. The surcharge reflects the processing fee charged by the credit card company. If you indicate your desire to pay by credit card, you agree to the 4% surcharge.
Each course will be invoiced via email as detailed in your contract. Late charges of 2% per month may be charged to all late payments. In addition, you must agree to pay any and all reasonable court and legal fees necessary to enforce the contract. If the deposit is not received the contract will be cancelled and you will be billed as above.
In most cases, you have the option to pay by check, money order, certified bank check, by credit card, or direct deposit. A 4% surcharge will be added to your invoice if you choose to pay using a credit card. The surcharge reflects the processing fee charged by the credit card company. If you indicate your desire to pay by credit card, you agree to the 4% surcharge.
Pricing Your Course
When pricing courses for the public, you should consider the associated costs above and beyond the course costs outlined above. These additional costs and services may include: food, camping or lodging, advertising, pre-course mailings, bus or airport pickup, etc. Depending on services you plan to offer, there may be additional fees for camping, meals, lodging, etc. Remember to budget some "slush" money to cover unexpected expenses (typically, there WILL be some).
When pricing courses for the public, you should consider the associated costs above and beyond the course costs outlined above. These additional costs and services may include: food, camping or lodging, advertising, pre-course mailings, bus or airport pickup, etc. Depending on services you plan to offer, there may be additional fees for camping, meals, lodging, etc. Remember to budget some "slush" money to cover unexpected expenses (typically, there WILL be some).
Marketing Your Course
We will post your course on our our website and our partner websites. Unless you can fill a course with staff or students from your organization it will be necessary for you to advertise locally, and perhaps regionally.
Dedicated Course Web Page
We STRONGLY encourage you to set-up a web page dedicated to your wilderness medicine course(s) on your server and link to us. Send us the page URL and we'll link to your page from our course schedule page. In addition to promoting your course, dedicated web pages also provide a place to house all your course information (registration form, directions to the course site, housing, meals, and other course logistics). One stop logistical "shopping". Highly effective. If you are a member of any association that has an event calendar (AORE, for example), post your course there and, if possible, link to both WMTC and your course page (see above). Please contact the WMTC office for a copy of our logo and photos to use on your course page.
Facebook
We also STRONGLY encourage you to post comments and photographs about your upcoming course on the WMTC Facebook page and your company/school/s Facebook, Instagram, or other social media. Posts could include why you chose to sponsor a course with us, highlights from past courses (including photos), cool things about upcoming courses. Every course site has a selling point. Big cities are easy to fly in and out of, have tons of shopping, and cool museums. Remote sites have beauty, play spots for before, during, and after courses, multiple environments, and truly realistic simulation sites. If you as a sponsor post something cool about your site...and it's supported by a graduate, you'll get more public enrollment. What's REALLY neat about Facebook posts is that it doesn't take much time to do and the rewards can be quite large. But it has to come from you and your students (not from WMTC).
Local TV, Radio, & Newspapers
Finally we suggest you contact your local radio station, TV station, and newspaper. They may be willing to list your course as a public service announcement. Upon request, we will provide a draft press release at no charge. Your course (unless you request otherwise) will appear on our web page and linked to a Adobe pdf registration form that may be downloaded directly from our site. There is no additional charge for this service. Of course, our office will also refer interested students to you.
Follow-up
We will post your course on our our website and our partner websites. Unless you can fill a course with staff or students from your organization it will be necessary for you to advertise locally, and perhaps regionally.
Dedicated Course Web Page
We STRONGLY encourage you to set-up a web page dedicated to your wilderness medicine course(s) on your server and link to us. Send us the page URL and we'll link to your page from our course schedule page. In addition to promoting your course, dedicated web pages also provide a place to house all your course information (registration form, directions to the course site, housing, meals, and other course logistics). One stop logistical "shopping". Highly effective. If you are a member of any association that has an event calendar (AORE, for example), post your course there and, if possible, link to both WMTC and your course page (see above). Please contact the WMTC office for a copy of our logo and photos to use on your course page.
We also STRONGLY encourage you to post comments and photographs about your upcoming course on the WMTC Facebook page and your company/school/s Facebook, Instagram, or other social media. Posts could include why you chose to sponsor a course with us, highlights from past courses (including photos), cool things about upcoming courses. Every course site has a selling point. Big cities are easy to fly in and out of, have tons of shopping, and cool museums. Remote sites have beauty, play spots for before, during, and after courses, multiple environments, and truly realistic simulation sites. If you as a sponsor post something cool about your site...and it's supported by a graduate, you'll get more public enrollment. What's REALLY neat about Facebook posts is that it doesn't take much time to do and the rewards can be quite large. But it has to come from you and your students (not from WMTC).
Local TV, Radio, & Newspapers
Finally we suggest you contact your local radio station, TV station, and newspaper. They may be willing to list your course as a public service announcement. Upon request, we will provide a draft press release at no charge. Your course (unless you request otherwise) will appear on our web page and linked to a Adobe pdf registration form that may be downloaded directly from our site. There is no additional charge for this service. Of course, our office will also refer interested students to you.
Follow-up
- When your advertising generates a phone call or walk in, take the opportunity to briefly describe the course, recommend they visit the WMTC website, and take down their name, phone number, and email address for follow-up.
- With a university outdoor program or outfitter store, we recommend developing a short information sheet that can be handed to potential students who walk-in and inquire about the course. Again, take down their name, phone number, and email address for follow-up.
- Make sure to follow-up all inquires with a detailed email. The email should contain links to the WMTC web site, the course page on your web site, and a direct link to the course registration (or attach).
Instructor Travel & Expenses
Sponsors are responsible for all instructor travel and expenses while traveling and during an in-person course. We will make every effort to keep costs to a minimum. Upon request we will advise sponsors of estimated instructor travel costs before a contract is written and signed. We can only quote plane fares based on the current rates; sponsors are responsible for plane fares at the time of booking. Plane fares will be booked when the course deposit has been received. Driving costs are invoiced at the federal mileage rate. Sponsors are responsible for providing room and board for the course instructors. Instructors are the backbone of the course and each person's needs and comfort levels are different; at the end of a long day, they need a place to recharge and prepare for the next day. Instructor quarters should be quiet, clean and private, ideally with internet access. Meals requirements also vary; some instructors have special dietary needs. Please contact each course instructors directly with questions regarding personal quarters, meals, and site requirements/limitations at least one month prior to your course start. Remember: if your instructors need to fly to your course site, you can save extra baggage or shipping charges by "borrowing" a torso and skeleton from the biology or health sciences department at your college or university.
Sponsors are responsible for all instructor travel and expenses while traveling and during an in-person course. We will make every effort to keep costs to a minimum. Upon request we will advise sponsors of estimated instructor travel costs before a contract is written and signed. We can only quote plane fares based on the current rates; sponsors are responsible for plane fares at the time of booking. Plane fares will be booked when the course deposit has been received. Driving costs are invoiced at the federal mileage rate. Sponsors are responsible for providing room and board for the course instructors. Instructors are the backbone of the course and each person's needs and comfort levels are different; at the end of a long day, they need a place to recharge and prepare for the next day. Instructor quarters should be quiet, clean and private, ideally with internet access. Meals requirements also vary; some instructors have special dietary needs. Please contact each course instructors directly with questions regarding personal quarters, meals, and site requirements/limitations at least one month prior to your course start. Remember: if your instructors need to fly to your course site, you can save extra baggage or shipping charges by "borrowing" a torso and skeleton from the biology or health sciences department at your college or university.
Students & Their Questions
Students will have many, many questions. If you are a new sponsor it may be difficult to answer them all. Especially those that are medical or legal. Please refer to our web site when dealing with student questions. If you cannot find an answer on our web site, refer the student to our office. Please avoid guessing or interpretation.
Many student questions are logistical. These are best handled with a dedicated web page and/or a detailed pre-course mailing after their deposit has been received. We strongly encourage you to set-up a page on your website devoted to your course(s). Ideally it should contain all logistical information available as both text and pdf file downloads. The page should link to the specific course page on the WMTC site and we will link to your page from our course schedule if you provide the URL.
Common questions relate to camping or lodging, meals, what to bring, what to wear, weather, how to get there, start and finish times, text books, etc. Unless otherwise stated each day will start at 8 AM and finish when the days material has been covered (usually about 6 PM). NOTE: that most hybrid course (Part 2) practical sessions have required evening classes; see the individual course syllabus for details. Request that each student arrive with enough time to acquaint themselves with the course site, classroom, and house rules. Emphasize that they need to be on time for the course start and that their return travel plans should be made with the understanding that the course may not be over until the evening of the last day. Unless you are providing them, remember to remind students to bring two T-shirts, two long sleeved shirts, and two pair of long pants. Inform them that these clothes will be cut and destroyed during simulations. Also remind them to bring old clothes for the skills sessions and PAS drills; they will be rolling about the muck and won't want to wear their new Goretex jacket, etc. Students should also bring a day pack, water bottle, travel mug (for coffee, tea, etc.), notebook(s), pens, and pencil. WMTC instructors use colored markers when lecturing on a whiteboard and many students find it helpful to bring a set of colored pencils or pens for note taking.
It is extremely important that all the students understand they need to be present and engaged for the entire course to receive certification. In addition to travel and site information, each student should receive prior to their course a syllabus, lab descriptions, and if possible, their books. While not required, Standard WFR students will find it helpful to read the course textbook before the course starts. Standard Recertification students should study their notes and the text prior to their course. Ideally, your pre-course mailing should be sent approximately six to eight weeks before the course starts. It should address all these issues and more. Keep in mind that no matter how detailed your mailing and how complete your answers, some students will still not quite “get it.” As you sponsor more and more courses everyone will get better at 'getting it'. Remember too, that each student will have a truly awesome course and that they will thank you for providing them with the opportunity. Remember, too, that having a web paged dedicated to your course can answer many student questions and solve many logistical issues before they become glitches.
Students can glean a tremendous amount of information from the WMTC website. Every student should be directed to download, print, and read our Student Booklet. The booklet is available as a pdf file from the Articles & Downloads page of this website.
Students will have many, many questions. If you are a new sponsor it may be difficult to answer them all. Especially those that are medical or legal. Please refer to our web site when dealing with student questions. If you cannot find an answer on our web site, refer the student to our office. Please avoid guessing or interpretation.
Many student questions are logistical. These are best handled with a dedicated web page and/or a detailed pre-course mailing after their deposit has been received. We strongly encourage you to set-up a page on your website devoted to your course(s). Ideally it should contain all logistical information available as both text and pdf file downloads. The page should link to the specific course page on the WMTC site and we will link to your page from our course schedule if you provide the URL.
Common questions relate to camping or lodging, meals, what to bring, what to wear, weather, how to get there, start and finish times, text books, etc. Unless otherwise stated each day will start at 8 AM and finish when the days material has been covered (usually about 6 PM). NOTE: that most hybrid course (Part 2) practical sessions have required evening classes; see the individual course syllabus for details. Request that each student arrive with enough time to acquaint themselves with the course site, classroom, and house rules. Emphasize that they need to be on time for the course start and that their return travel plans should be made with the understanding that the course may not be over until the evening of the last day. Unless you are providing them, remember to remind students to bring two T-shirts, two long sleeved shirts, and two pair of long pants. Inform them that these clothes will be cut and destroyed during simulations. Also remind them to bring old clothes for the skills sessions and PAS drills; they will be rolling about the muck and won't want to wear their new Goretex jacket, etc. Students should also bring a day pack, water bottle, travel mug (for coffee, tea, etc.), notebook(s), pens, and pencil. WMTC instructors use colored markers when lecturing on a whiteboard and many students find it helpful to bring a set of colored pencils or pens for note taking.
It is extremely important that all the students understand they need to be present and engaged for the entire course to receive certification. In addition to travel and site information, each student should receive prior to their course a syllabus, lab descriptions, and if possible, their books. While not required, Standard WFR students will find it helpful to read the course textbook before the course starts. Standard Recertification students should study their notes and the text prior to their course. Ideally, your pre-course mailing should be sent approximately six to eight weeks before the course starts. It should address all these issues and more. Keep in mind that no matter how detailed your mailing and how complete your answers, some students will still not quite “get it.” As you sponsor more and more courses everyone will get better at 'getting it'. Remember too, that each student will have a truly awesome course and that they will thank you for providing them with the opportunity. Remember, too, that having a web paged dedicated to your course can answer many student questions and solve many logistical issues before they become glitches.
Students can glean a tremendous amount of information from the WMTC website. Every student should be directed to download, print, and read our Student Booklet. The booklet is available as a pdf file from the Articles & Downloads page of this website.
Site & Classroom Requirements
Indoor classrooms are common and should be large enough for students, desks (tables), chairs, and course gear. It should be a pleasant space with good lighting and shades (the use of Apple Keynote and video requires a darkened space). It should also be quiet with good acoustics. There should be enough rest rooms to quickly accommodate the class size close by. The space should be large enough (or additional space available) for indoor skills training if the weather is poor (all simulations will be held outside).
Courses may be completely taught outside (on partial or full expedition if desired). If this option is chosen, large tarps, a roofed shelter, or excellent weather is required. Again, keep in mind that video and digital presentations are not available without some form of electricity (solar, generator, etc.). Video may still be an option if a generator or battery powered monitor is available. Outside space for skills training and simulations is also necessary. Transportation may be required if the areas for simulations are not within a short walk (less than fifteen minutes). If possible, simulation sites should contain varied terrain: rock bands, wooded areas, steep hills, lakes, streams, rivers, etc. The instructor(s) will need a large 4' x 8' whiteboard and 4 new colored dry and wet erase markers. The whiteboard can be purchased cheaply at any lumber supply store that carries white sheets of tub & shower wall board. Take a dry erase marker to double check. For increased strength the whiteboard may be laminated to a 1/4" backing of particle board or plywood. (Total cost of laminated whiteboard is usually less than $40). Teaching with a whiteboard of this size permits flexibility within a lecture, usually provides a complete picture of the topic without erasing, and allows lectures to be held outside in good weather. A portable 2' x 3' whiteboard and stand are also helpful. Courses with video and PPT will also require a LCD projector and screen. A checklist follows. Unusually large courses may require additional items not on the checklist.
Indoor classrooms are common and should be large enough for students, desks (tables), chairs, and course gear. It should be a pleasant space with good lighting and shades (the use of Apple Keynote and video requires a darkened space). It should also be quiet with good acoustics. There should be enough rest rooms to quickly accommodate the class size close by. The space should be large enough (or additional space available) for indoor skills training if the weather is poor (all simulations will be held outside).
Courses may be completely taught outside (on partial or full expedition if desired). If this option is chosen, large tarps, a roofed shelter, or excellent weather is required. Again, keep in mind that video and digital presentations are not available without some form of electricity (solar, generator, etc.). Video may still be an option if a generator or battery powered monitor is available. Outside space for skills training and simulations is also necessary. Transportation may be required if the areas for simulations are not within a short walk (less than fifteen minutes). If possible, simulation sites should contain varied terrain: rock bands, wooded areas, steep hills, lakes, streams, rivers, etc. The instructor(s) will need a large 4' x 8' whiteboard and 4 new colored dry and wet erase markers. The whiteboard can be purchased cheaply at any lumber supply store that carries white sheets of tub & shower wall board. Take a dry erase marker to double check. For increased strength the whiteboard may be laminated to a 1/4" backing of particle board or plywood. (Total cost of laminated whiteboard is usually less than $40). Teaching with a whiteboard of this size permits flexibility within a lecture, usually provides a complete picture of the topic without erasing, and allows lectures to be held outside in good weather. A portable 2' x 3' whiteboard and stand are also helpful. Courses with video and PPT will also require a LCD projector and screen. A checklist follows. Unusually large courses may require additional items not on the checklist.
- Adequate classroom space for students (including desks and chairs where appropriate). The classroom should have at least 20 feet of clear wall space for posting the seven wet or dry erase SOAP posters use to teach patient assessment and debrief case studies and simulations. (Instructors will bring the posters with them. Posters are typically attached to drywall using blue painter's tape and to other surfaces using duct tape. Please supply multiple rolls of the tape you prefer to be used on your walls.
- Electricity for audio/visual equipment including extension cords
- Transportation to and from simulations or off-site activities if needed
- Large whiteboard (4' X 8')
- Small whiteboard (2' x 3') & stand
- Four new colored dry erase chisel tip markers (red, blue, black, green)
- Four new colored wet chisel tip erase markers (red, blue, black, green)
- LED projector
- Projection screen appropriate to class size
- Hand sanitizer (for student use between skill labs and simulations to help prevent spread of disease)
- Sanitizing wipes to clean face masks and suction syringes between use.
- Multiple COVID-19 rapid tests for use during the course should a student become ill.
Required Medical & Rescue Gear
An equipment checklist for the gear you need to provide follows. Items are listed according to their lab. Refer to the course syllabus for a specific day. If a lab is not mentioned, there are no special gear requirements for that lab (e.g. Dislocations Lab). While we don't recommend it, occasionally sponsors request that students bring their personal gear with them for use during the course. If you are not an outfitter this may help keep equipment and course costs down; however, please note: It is EXTREMELY unpleasant to sleep in a sleeping bag that has been soaked during a simulation earlier in the day. Occasionally, for a fee, and only for courses within driving distance from our warehouse, we can provide equipment. Please call our office if you have any questions.
Full-sized Anatomical Torso & Skeleton
All Courses. Our instructors each have a full-sized anatomical torso and skeleton that they travel with. These teaching aids are required for students to fully grasp three dimensional anatomy. If your instructors need to fly to your course site, you can save extra baggage or shipping charges by "borrowing" an anatomical torso and plastic skeleton from the biology or health sciences department at your college or university. If you are an regular sponsor, you may wish to purchase one of each for future courses; they typically pay for themselves after 3-5 courses.
General Equipment
All Courses. Every course has a Basic Life Support Lab that requires the following equipment. If the weather is cold the equipment will be used in many, if not all, simulations. It will also be used during the spine management and advanced extremity splinting labs.
WEMT, WFR, WAFA, and Recertification courses. Various materials are needed to teach students how to improvise effective splints with available gear. In general anything that might be present in a field situation should be available for this lab. The materials used during the lab should remain easily accessible for the entire course. Choose splinting materials that reflect the environment and activities that the students live, work, and travel in. Some suggestions follow. There must be enough gear available for half the class to wear one splint (arm or leg) at the same time
Optional Splinting Equipment (WFR & WEMT only)
An equipment checklist for the gear you need to provide follows. Items are listed according to their lab. Refer to the course syllabus for a specific day. If a lab is not mentioned, there are no special gear requirements for that lab (e.g. Dislocations Lab). While we don't recommend it, occasionally sponsors request that students bring their personal gear with them for use during the course. If you are not an outfitter this may help keep equipment and course costs down; however, please note: It is EXTREMELY unpleasant to sleep in a sleeping bag that has been soaked during a simulation earlier in the day. Occasionally, for a fee, and only for courses within driving distance from our warehouse, we can provide equipment. Please call our office if you have any questions.
Full-sized Anatomical Torso & Skeleton
All Courses. Our instructors each have a full-sized anatomical torso and skeleton that they travel with. These teaching aids are required for students to fully grasp three dimensional anatomy. If your instructors need to fly to your course site, you can save extra baggage or shipping charges by "borrowing" an anatomical torso and plastic skeleton from the biology or health sciences department at your college or university. If you are an regular sponsor, you may wish to purchase one of each for future courses; they typically pay for themselves after 3-5 courses.
General Equipment
All Courses. Every course has a Basic Life Support Lab that requires the following equipment. If the weather is cold the equipment will be used in many, if not all, simulations. It will also be used during the spine management and advanced extremity splinting labs.
- Closed foam pads: 1 per 2 students for WFA & WAFA courses, 9 minimum for WFR courses
- Sleeping bags: 1 per 2 students for WFA & WAFA courses, 9 minimum for WFR courses
- Tarps, Tyvek sheets, or plastic sheets (min. size: 10 x 10 feet): 1 per 2 students, 9 minimum for WFR courses
WEMT, WFR, WAFA, and Recertification courses. Various materials are needed to teach students how to improvise effective splints with available gear. In general anything that might be present in a field situation should be available for this lab. The materials used during the lab should remain easily accessible for the entire course. Choose splinting materials that reflect the environment and activities that the students live, work, and travel in. Some suggestions follow. There must be enough gear available for half the class to wear one splint (arm or leg) at the same time
- Duct tape: 1 roll per 10 students, 2 rolls minimum
- Tent poles: 1 set per 10 students, 1 set minimum
- Internal frame packs: 1 per 5 students, 2 minimum
- Ski or trekking poles: 8 per course
- 1" webbing and/or cam straps (assorted lengths 4' - 10')
Optional Splinting Equipment (WFR & WEMT only)
- Sandwich Splint: 1 per course
- Snowshoes: 1 pair per 10 students, 1 pair minimum
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Wounds Lab
All courses except Recertification courses. This lab focuses on practical cleaning methods for high risk wounds, one of the more common injuries in the outdoors. It requires fresh or frozen pig's feet (with the hair removed). The texture and anatomy of pig's feet are very close to human skin and musculature and add realism to the lab. You will need to order the pig's feet at least one month in advance from your local butcher or supermarket. Remember, no hair please! It’s also helpful to have whole feet (vs cut in half) for the lab AND nice to have one cut lengthwise for a quick anatomy lesson. Please keep them frozen until the lab. We will supply the remaining lab equipment.
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 Practicing wound cleaning. |
Spine Management Lab
WEMT, WFR, WAFA, and Recertification courses. This lab focuses on lifting, moving, and packaging spine-injured patients on a commercial and/or improvised litter. Materials from the Extremities Splinting Lab will also be used here.
Optional Spine Management Equipment
WFR & WEMT courses only.
Please notify our office if you provide—and would like training in—any of the following equipment prior to contracting your course.
Improvised Litters & Carries Lab
All courses. This lab shows students how to improvise and package different litters, to improvise hypothermia packaging, to create alternate methods for evacuating non-spine injured patients, and to improvise traction splints. WFA and WAFA courses require the same materials but do NOT teach improvised litters.
Standard WFR courses only. A nice addition to the Day 2 lecture in our Standard WFR course are REAL lungs, heart, brain, and liver from a pig; please keep the organ block intact (epiglottis, trachea, lungs, and heart). Often a local butcher can save these parts for your course. The students REALLY appreciate these visual aids. In addition please provide a long sharp kitchen knife and basin for each organ block. Please ask the butcher leave the heart whole and, if possible, attached to the lungs in a complete “organ block” with the trachea, larynx and epiglottis intact.
Simulations
All courses. All courses have simulations to help students practice in a realistic environment. Fake wounds, blood, etc. are used to increase reality. Old clothing is required so students are able to cut (as they would do in a real situation) to look at injury sites. Clothing may be obtained from Goodwill, Salvation Army, Thrift Shops, etc. Most course sponsors have each student bring a set (two t-shirts, two pair of long pants, and two long sleeved shirts) with them to the course.
CPR manikins are required for CPR certification. Upon request WMTC can provide manikins; a shipping or extra baggage fee may apply. Contact the office for details.
WEMT, WFR, WAFA, and Recertification courses. This lab focuses on lifting, moving, and packaging spine-injured patients on a commercial and/or improvised litter. Materials from the Extremities Splinting Lab will also be used here.
- Long backboard: 1 per 7 students, 2 minimum
- Stokes (wire basket) or similar rigid litter: 1 per 15 students, 1 minimum
- Six-inch quick draws or tied loops: 20 per course (optional)
- One 30 foot section of webbing or rope: 1 per backboard
- 1 inch cam straps for each backboard and litter (optional)
- One 50-60 meter climbing rope for each litter and backboard
Optional Spine Management Equipment
WFR & WEMT courses only.
Please notify our office if you provide—and would like training in—any of the following equipment prior to contracting your course.
- SKED litter: 1 per course
- Full-body vacuum splint: 1 per course
Improvised Litters & Carries Lab
All courses. This lab shows students how to improvise and package different litters, to improvise hypothermia packaging, to create alternate methods for evacuating non-spine injured patients, and to improvise traction splints. WFA and WAFA courses require the same materials but do NOT teach improvised litters.
- 50-60 meter climbing rope: one per 7 students, 2 minimum
- Water proof nylon/plastic tarps: 1 per 5 students, 4 minimum
Standard WFR courses only. A nice addition to the Day 2 lecture in our Standard WFR course are REAL lungs, heart, brain, and liver from a pig; please keep the organ block intact (epiglottis, trachea, lungs, and heart). Often a local butcher can save these parts for your course. The students REALLY appreciate these visual aids. In addition please provide a long sharp kitchen knife and basin for each organ block. Please ask the butcher leave the heart whole and, if possible, attached to the lungs in a complete “organ block” with the trachea, larynx and epiglottis intact.
Simulations
All courses. All courses have simulations to help students practice in a realistic environment. Fake wounds, blood, etc. are used to increase reality. Old clothing is required so students are able to cut (as they would do in a real situation) to look at injury sites. Clothing may be obtained from Goodwill, Salvation Army, Thrift Shops, etc. Most course sponsors have each student bring a set (two t-shirts, two pair of long pants, and two long sleeved shirts) with them to the course.
- Old clothing in reasonable condition: two t-shirts, two pair of long pants, and two long-sleeved shirts for EACH student
CPR manikins are required for CPR certification. Upon request WMTC can provide manikins; a shipping or extra baggage fee may apply. Contact the office for details.
- Adult manikins: Minimum: 1 per 4 students. Preferred: 1 per 2 students.
- AED Trainer Minimum: 1 per course. Preferred: 1 per 2 students.
Managing Your Course
We offer two basic course delivery options: Standard & hybrid.
Our standard courses are completely taught at your site; morning didactic presentations transfer easily into afternoon and day-long practical sessions. Our Standard courses are best suited for students who meet one or more of the following conditions: prefer minimal course preparation, prefer listening to an instructor lecture rather than study on their own, do not have the self-discipline and/or the academic aptitude required for effective distance learning, or do not have easy access to a computer and high-speed internet.
Our hybrid courses are divided into two distinct parts, students must complete both parts within a year to receive certification. Students register for each part independently; although you can sponsor both parts. Our hybrid courses are best suited for students who meet the following criteria: have limited time off work, have the self-discipline and academic aptitude required for effective distance learning, enjoy and have the time for in-depth study outside of their regular life commitments, have a computer with adequate memory and high-speed internet access, and who possess a valid e-mail address. Please read the following guidelines carefully. Please contact the WMTC office with any questions sooner rather than later.
Once your course is contracted and regardless of the course type—standard or hybrid—a member of the WMTC office staff will work with you to set up student registrations and access to our course management system. Access to the course portal will be sent to you via email; you will need to create your own password. Remember to save both the portal URL and password for future logins. Once your portal is active, a member of our support staff will contact you and schedule a video meeting to show you how to use your portal; you will receive an email each time a student registers for your course and the student's registration information will automatically appear in the course roster on your portal.
Precourse: All Courses
Precourse: Standard Courses
Roughly two weeks before the start of a course send all students a precourse email/letter with an equipment list. Include:
We offer two basic course delivery options: Standard & hybrid.
Our standard courses are completely taught at your site; morning didactic presentations transfer easily into afternoon and day-long practical sessions. Our Standard courses are best suited for students who meet one or more of the following conditions: prefer minimal course preparation, prefer listening to an instructor lecture rather than study on their own, do not have the self-discipline and/or the academic aptitude required for effective distance learning, or do not have easy access to a computer and high-speed internet.
Our hybrid courses are divided into two distinct parts, students must complete both parts within a year to receive certification. Students register for each part independently; although you can sponsor both parts. Our hybrid courses are best suited for students who meet the following criteria: have limited time off work, have the self-discipline and academic aptitude required for effective distance learning, enjoy and have the time for in-depth study outside of their regular life commitments, have a computer with adequate memory and high-speed internet access, and who possess a valid e-mail address. Please read the following guidelines carefully. Please contact the WMTC office with any questions sooner rather than later.
Once your course is contracted and regardless of the course type—standard or hybrid—a member of the WMTC office staff will work with you to set up student registrations and access to our course management system. Access to the course portal will be sent to you via email; you will need to create your own password. Remember to save both the portal URL and password for future logins. Once your portal is active, a member of our support staff will contact you and schedule a video meeting to show you how to use your portal; you will receive an email each time a student registers for your course and the student's registration information will automatically appear in the course roster on your portal.
Precourse: All Courses
- Market your course locally. Consider: a Facebook post on both your page and WMTC's page, developing a web page dedicated to your course (link to WMTC and send the URL to our office so we can link back), contact local outdoor organizations (include local parks, forest service, outfitters, colleges, high school faculty, etc.) and local service radio, TV, and newspapers to request a public service announcement. When your advertising generates a phone call or walk in, take the opportunity to briefly describe the course, recommend they visit the web site, and take down their name, phone number, and email address for follow-up. With a university outdoor program or outfitter store, we recommend developing a short information sheet that can be handed to potential students who walk-in and inquire about the course. Again, take down their name, phone number, and email address for follow-up. Make sure to follow-up all inquires with a detailed email. The email should contain links to the WMTC website, the course page on your web site, and a direct link to the course registration (or attach).
- If you are an AORE member, please list your course on the AORE Events calendar.
- Pay the course deposit (if any).
- Contact the course instructor(s) and review the medical and rescue gear necessary to run the course, their travel plans, and general logistics. .
- Work with the WMTC office to arrange shipping of course materials.
- Send a precourse letter or email to all students upon registration. The letter should ideally confirm their registration, include a link to — or copy of — our student booklet, and a link to your course page if applicable or information on general logistics (location, travel, lodging, etc.). Please send a copy of your precourse letter to the WMTC office and the course instructor for review prior to sending.
- Assemble the course supplies and equipment — what you are providing and what has been shipped to your from the WMTC office — in or near the classroom immediately prior to the arrival of the course instructor(s). If you can provide a full-sized anatomical torso and skeleton and CPR mannikins, you will decrease your shipping costs; either way, remember to share your decision with the course instructor(s).
- If you change the contact person for your course, please notify the WMTC office immediately so we can update the links on our web sites.
Precourse: Standard Courses
Roughly two weeks before the start of a course send all students a precourse email/letter with an equipment list. Include:
- Include a summary of the course Health Admission Criteria and PPE requirements.
- Any relevant pandemic related information. Some sponsors provide mask or respirators, others require students to purchase and bring their own.
- All logistical information: directions, start & end times, copy of the course syllabus, parking, meals, etc.
- Outdoor Clothing. Roughly 50% of your course will be spent outdoors performing simulations, you will want to be comfortable; dress appropriately for the weather and environment.
- Simulation Clothing. You will need two pairs of long pants, two long-sleeved shirts, two T-shirts, and one pair of heavy hiking socks. Use old clothing or stop by a local second-hand store such as Goodwill or Salvation Army. Plan on the shirts and pants being destroyed during simulations; the socks may escape unscathed.
- Simulations are a vital part of your learning. You will act as both a rescuer and a patient throughout your practical session. In many simulations rescuers are required to check under the outer layers of their patient's clothing for potential life-threatening wounds; in some cases, when a patient's clothing is completely wet due to water immersion, rescuers will be required to remove the outer layers of the patient's clothing before placing the patient in a sleeping bag to keep them warm. It is vital to protect the personal space of all patients during simulations: Everyone MUST wear a swimsuit, sports bra (if applicable), and/or shorts under their simulation clothing.
- Daypack. Bring a simple daypack to class with you each day. You may need it during simulations.
- Snacks, a headlamp (just in case), a watch, and a reusable water bottle.
- Small notebook, a pencil, and pen. Consider bringing colored pencils and plain paper for notes.
- Encourage WFR Recertification students registered for a Standard WFA to complete the online WFR Recertification practice test and at least one final test prior to the start of the course. This way, the course instructor can clarify any questions they may have.
Precourse: Hybrid Courses
- Student must complete the Part independent study portion of a hybrid course in order to attend the Part 2, the practical session. During registration Part 1 students are required to upload their Part 1 Certificate of Completion.
- If you are sponsoring Part 1 of a hybrid course please review the independent study requirements with each student before they register.
- Publish the date students will receive the Part 1 independent study hybrid course materials and access to the online tests; ideally this should be no later than two months prior to the in-person course for registered students. Remember to distinguish between WFA and Recertification students and between WFR and WEMT students as they may attend the same practical session but should receive access to different course web sites and tests.
- When you click the "Paid" button in your portal our course management system will automatically send an email to the student confirming their enrollment. If they are registering for Part 1 of a hybrid course, they will receive a second email from the system with login information to the course website and their online tests. Occasionally—and for a variety of reasons—a student may not receive their login information; without it they cannot complete their independent study and testing. It's vital to confirm early that they can login to the course website and their online test, and download the course study guide.
- It's extremely helpful to have a staff person familiar with computers and the internet become familiar with the hybrid format so they can help students solve access problems. Our office staff is more than willing to guide a representative from your organization through the course format, to address potential problems and their solutions.
- If you are sponsoring Part 1 of a hybrid course, you may check students' testing progress via your portal. Some in-house students may need encouragement from you. Check in with any students who have not completed testing two weeks prior to the start of the Part 2 practical session. Students must complete Part 1 online tests order to attend the practical session. Students who are not eligible to attend Part 2 of a scheduled practical session may be able to attend a later session with you or another sponsor.
Upon Instructor Arrival at your Site
- We prefer that instructors arrive the day before the course start to settle-in and become familiar with the course site; they need enough time to set-up the indoor classroom, inventory materials, inspect/review the course equipment, and walk through potential simulation sites with you in preparation for the next day.
- Arrange times for daily check-ins during the course. Ensure course instructor(s) have your emergency contact information.
- Introduce any support staff.
The First Day
- Welcome students, review logistics (restrooms, site rules, etc.), introduce the instructor(s), and address any concerns. Coordinate your opening remarks with the course instructor(s). It's helpful to stay until class starts to ensure all students are present.
During the Course
- Check in daily to ensure the course is on track and to address potential glitches before they become a problem.
- If you have staff in the course, you may want to show up during simulations and labs to monitor their progress. You may also want to take digital photos for your program's Instragram, Facebook, future marketing, etc.
- Schedule a time and place to debrief the course with the instructor(s) after the students have left on the last day.
The Last Day
- Be present for the certification ceremony and to congratulate students on their success.
- Help the instructor(s) organize a general clean-up of the classroom and gear.
- If desired, ask instructors for a copy of student evaluations.
After the Course
- Email any specific feedback to the WMTC office and, if necessary, schedule a meeting to debrief the course from an administrative perspective.
- Our office will send a final invoice as per your course questionnaire and contract.