Joining the Bryan Mountain Nordic Ski Patrol
Candidates are not required to have patrol days but are highly encouraged to “ski along” with the patrollers while they are patrolling. The dates for the “ski alongs” are of the candidates choosing; please contact the hill leader and the patroller you wish to ski with at least a week ahead of time.
Candidate Training Information
The first step in becoming a BMNSP patroller is to join the National Ski Patrol. BMNSP will assist you with this process. Candidates must be at least 15 years of age to join the NSP and BMNSP. It is also required that candidates successfully complete the NSP’s Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) course (OEC includes CPR certification). Once you have successfully completed the OEC course, you are officially a NSP Candidate Patroller.
To continue your training and become a patroller, you must successfully complete courses covering basic avalanche skills, basic mountaineering skills (safe winter travel), the Nordic ski skills test (classic cross country and skate techniques) and emergency toboggan building. This list of training may seem daunting, however training may be completed in a single season or over several seasons, if desired. Please contact the candidate advisor with any questions.
Training need not stop once you’ve completed your candidate requirements. At the beginning of every season patrollers and continuing candidates are required to complete refresher courses in OEC, CPR, and “On-The-Hill” protocol at the ski area. Advanced courses are also available (listed below) both within BMNSP and thoughout the National Ski Patrol.
Candidates are required to complete the following courses
- OEC (Outdoor Emergency Care) 60+ classroom hours, 24 field hours
- CPR (health care provider level)
- Level I Avalanche
- Basic Mountain Travel and Rescue
And Demonstrate proficiency in the following skills
- Basic Nordic Ski Skills
- Emergency Toboggan Building and Hauling
- Radio Communication at the Patrol Area and Backcountry
- Patrol Room, First Aid, and On-The-Trail Procedures
- Knowledge of ski design, sizing, selection, and care
Additional training available to candidates and patrollers
- Level II Avalanche
- Advanced Mountain Travel and Rescue
- Instructor training for all the courses
- More ski skills including backcountry and Telemark skiing
Anyone interested in Bryan Mountain Nordic Ski Patrol can send E-mail to the BMNSP Candidate Advisor.