Avalanche Operations Level 1 Course
This professional training course is intended for anyone who wishes to work in the snow and avalanche industry (ski areas, transport routes, guide services, recreational avalanche safety training course instructors, first responders, etc.). This training is offered once a year in French in Quebec and is equivalent to that offered in Western Canada.
This intensive 7-day technical course consists of ~40% theory and classroom work and ~60% practical sessions and field trips.
This training may also be suitable for snowmobilers if they are able to travel in variable snow conditions and on various terrains using snowshoes/skis/splitboards while carrying a backpack. Specific courses for snowmobilers, with travel on snowmobiles, are available in Western Canada in English.
- New for 2024-2025: Courses Avalanche Search and Rescue 1 (AvSAR 1)
- Introduction to Avalanche Operations online course. The training must be completed prior to the Avalanche Operations Level 1 course, and the electronic certificate will be requested as proof of completion;
- Must be 18 years of age or older;
- Advanced experience in backcountry skiing or splitboarding and good physical condition: ability to use alpine touring equipment (bindings, skins, and skis/splitboard), ability to navigate in variable conditions and terrain (such as deep snow, crusty snow, wind slabs, and dense trees) while carrying a backpack;
- Recreational avalanche courses (AST1 and AST2) are no longer mandatory, but are still recommended.
Course Goals
At the end of the course, students should be able to :
- Describe the formation and release of snow avalanches;
- Describe the factors that contribute to avalanche hazard and risk;
- Identify, classify and analyze avalanche terrain;
- Identify and describe the properties of mountain snowpack;
- Observe and record weather data;
- Observe and record snowpack data;
- Observe and record avalanche occurrence data;
- Describe and apply the process used in avalanche hazard assessment;
- Apply risk treatment methods;
- Apply standard safety procedures within a team environment;
- Describe the scope of practice for Avalanche Operations Level 1 Graduates;
Language
Student readings and documents will be in English, but instructors are bilingual and will provide tools to help students in their learning.
Recommended courses
- Avalanche Canada’s Avalanche Safety Training Course (AST1)
- Avalanche Canada’s Avalanche Skills Training 2 (AST2)
- Avalanche Canada’s Managing Avalanche Terrain (MAT) course
- Canadian Avalanche Association’s Introduction to Weather course
What to expect
A sample schedule for this course provides an overview of what each day will look like. Course days are long, and it is the student’s responsibility to take care of their personal needs. This includes food, drinks, appropriate clothing, and ensuring that they are well rested and ready to learn.
MATERIALS
Upon registration, students will receive an email with the course logistics, including preparatory readings and educational videos (in English). Course times and locations will also be announced. A detailed list of required materials will be provided. Additional details regarding transportation and accommodation will also be included.
Finally, a hard copy of the book “Introduction to Avalanche Operations,” which summarizes the content of the online course, will be sent to the student’s mailing address.
ASSESSMENT
The course assessment consists of a series of written exams, field notebook observations, practical exercises, and discussions. A grade of 71% is required to successfully complete the course. Exam retakes are permitted only in specific situations. A passing grade will result in the issuance of the Avalanche Operations Level 1 course certificate from the Canadian Avalanche Association.
Registration
New for 2024-2025: Only individuals who have obtained a place on the AvSAR1 course will be allowed to register for the Avalanche Operations Level 1 course. The AvSAR1 course must be planned and completed before the Avalanche Operations Level 1 course.
February 10–16, 2025, in the Chic-Chocs. 18 spots available, $2,585. (If the course is full, we strongly encourage you to sign up for the waiting list.)
Scholarships
- $750 MEC scholarship awarded to the college student enrolled in adventure tourism with the highest cumulative grade;
- $1,250 Alexandra Oberson Scholarship awarded to the female graduate with the highest cumulative grade.
* The two scholarships cannot be awarded to the same person.
QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions about the Avalanche Operations Level 1 course (price, date, location, etc.), please contact the Canadian Avalanche Association (studentservices@avalancheassociation.ca).
