OEC and OFC

Outdoor Emergency Care

NSP’s training programs for ski patrollers and mountain hosts are considered the standard of training for emergency care in the outdoor environment and are recognized by resorts and recreational facilities in all 50 states. 

OEC is NSP’s signature course offering. This emergency medical responder course is tailored to the non-urban rescuer. It  is required of all NSP patroller members and is offered primarily through NSP patrols, though some NSP affiliate organizations offer the course as well.  

In an OEC course, you will learn about many aspects of outdoor care, including:  

• Performing safe and effective stabilization and extrication of injured persons in the outdoor environment 
• Scene safety (identifying hazards to both responders and visitors) 
• Safe and efficient use of outdoor emergency care skills to prevent further injury to visitors 

The cost of OEC and NSP’s other courses are substantially lower than other outdoor first responder courses and certifications. To maintain an OEC credential an annual refresher course is.  

Outdoor First Care

NSP’s course designed for those interested in serving as Mountain Hosts at ski areas and others who need an entry-level first aid course. The course is offered through local patrols and resorts. It includes content knowledge and hands-on skills training and evaluation. 

Participants earn a two-year certification. There is no refresher requirement for this course; renewal courses are offered with no national course fee.