Avalanche Skills Training 2 (AST2)
AST2 provides a decision-making framework for travel in avalanche terrain. Lasting four days, including three in the field, this course is structured around the daily process , which reproduces the same approach as that used by professionals. It has been developed to meet the needs of people with a moderate level of training and experience. In addition, this course introduces prerequisite knowledge for further avalanche training and presents the Canadian Avalanche Association’s professional training program as the accepted industry standard for pursuing advanced training.
The AST1 must have been completed in order to register for the AST2. It is also recommended that you practice the concepts and techniques learned in the AST1 for at least one season before registering for the AST2.
Course OBJECTIVES
By the end of the course, students should be able to :
- Use the Avaluator™ as a decision-making tool to determine when additional planning and safe travel techniques are required;
- Be familiar with techniques for assessing avalanche danger ratings for personal use on a local scale;
- Be familiar with the technical model of the Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale as a personal means of developing local terrain ratings;
- Use a route choice to take advantage of terrain features and manage personal risks;
- Use travel habits that are appropriate to the avalanche conditions;
- Know how to skillfully perform a companion rescue;
- Understand the limits of your training.
MINIMUM TIME REQUIREMENT
- A minimum of eight hours in class is required;
- A minimum of three days in the field is required.
GEAR
It is recommended that you contact the course provider to determine the equipment required to optimize your learning experience. In general, you should plan to bring clothing and equipment suitable for spending time outdoors and traveling in the mountains.
ASSESSMENT
The course is assessed on a continuous basis. There is no final exam. A certificate will be issued at the end of the course to all students who have fulfilled the requirements.
If you have any questions about a specific course (price, date, location, etc.), please contact the course provider directly.
