How to Join the National Ski Patrol
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There’s no single definition of a ski patroller. While the image of a patroller rescuing an injured skier on the mountain might come to mind, the reality is that it takes a diverse team to make it all happen. Emergency care is a crucial part of the National Ski Patrol’s mission—but we do so much more. We educate. We communicate. We participate!
Ski patrollers don’t fit into a single mold, but they do share common traits. NSP members are passionate about helping others, learning emergency care techniques, improving their skiing or snowboarding skills, and promoting safety and enjoyment for all on the slopes. If that sounds like you, keep reading to find out how you can join our elite team. Looking for a patrol near you? Click here to find one in your area or email [email protected] for more information. |
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What it Take to Become a Ski Patroller
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Find Your Niche
Many ski areas depend on volunteer patrol members to meet their many needs. Other areas employ full-time or part-time paid patrollers, or use a combination of paid and volunteer staff to provide patrol services. We encourage you to contact the patrol directors at the ski and snowboard areas of your choice to get an idea of the specific qualifications and experience they are seeking for their patrollers. Although the national office may not know the patroller needs at a specific area, we can direct you to patrol directors near your location. In any case, the profile of the National Ski Patrol member is that of a person willing to work hard, devote many hours, and continually enhance personal knowledge and skills. Work Hard, Play Hard |
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There's nothing more rewarding than putting in a hard day's work-and having a good time doing it. The main objective of being a National Ski Patrol member is to support the area management function of caring for injured skiers and in making mountain recreation safer and more fun. But, there are many other benefits. You'll be a respected part of the industry. You'll perfect your skills. And you'll make friendships that will last a lifetime.
Gain The Advantages Of Higher Education
National Ski Patrol education programs offer you the chance to learn about emergency care, search and rescue, avalanche control, lift evacuation, mountaineering, toboggan handling, and other interesting topics! You'll test your knowledge and your skills with personalized support from your area and fellow patrollers. You'll also receive a free subscription to Ski Patrol Magazine, which provides timely information about emergency care techniques, skiing and snowboarding tips, association news, and more. NSP programs are an exciting challenge-in the classroom and on the slopes!
Gain The Advantages Of Higher Education
National Ski Patrol education programs offer you the chance to learn about emergency care, search and rescue, avalanche control, lift evacuation, mountaineering, toboggan handling, and other interesting topics! You'll test your knowledge and your skills with personalized support from your area and fellow patrollers. You'll also receive a free subscription to Ski Patrol Magazine, which provides timely information about emergency care techniques, skiing and snowboarding tips, association news, and more. NSP programs are an exciting challenge-in the classroom and on the slopes!
Requirements
Becoming a member of the National Ski Patrol does have requirements as specified by a local patrol. These usually include training, including completion of Outdoor Emergency Care course, plus any other training required by the local patrol.
The process works something like this:
The process works something like this:
- You must first contact a local patrol, or the patrol you wish to work for. (access local patrols via our "Region" link in the above navigation)
- Pass a Ski/Ride evaluation (some patrols require this).
- Once the Patrol Director approves your application, you must join the NSP as a Candidate via the NSP Member website.
- Successfully complete the OCE Course
- Any other local patrol requirements
Advanced First Aid:
An Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) course is offered through the NSP. Licensed EMT's, nurses or physicians can take a 'bridging' course in lieu of the full OEC course.
CPR Course:
A current CPR card. NSP recognizes either American Red Cross or The Heart Association. CPR cards must be renewed every year, even those with multi-year expiration dates.
Skills:
The National Ski Patrol has various patroller roles. Once a new member or candidate passes all the first aid skills tests they become a Basic patroller. Strong skiers or snowboarders train with toboggans and become Basic Patrollers who primarily function on the hill.
Age:
There are two different programs within the National Ski Patrol. Basic, start at age 18 years, and a Young Adult Patroller (YAP) available for younger people that concentrates on First Aid and Skiing and Snowboarding skills.
An Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) course is offered through the NSP. Licensed EMT's, nurses or physicians can take a 'bridging' course in lieu of the full OEC course.
CPR Course:
A current CPR card. NSP recognizes either American Red Cross or The Heart Association. CPR cards must be renewed every year, even those with multi-year expiration dates.
Skills:
The National Ski Patrol has various patroller roles. Once a new member or candidate passes all the first aid skills tests they become a Basic patroller. Strong skiers or snowboarders train with toboggans and become Basic Patrollers who primarily function on the hill.
Age:
There are two different programs within the National Ski Patrol. Basic, start at age 18 years, and a Young Adult Patroller (YAP) available for younger people that concentrates on First Aid and Skiing and Snowboarding skills.