Glacier & Crevasse Rescue Training

OVERVIEW

We provide training in many different aspects of glacier safety and crevasse rescue. Modules 1 and 2 are provided as a refresher to every team member on Ski Antarctica expeditions prior to sailing. Glacier training is recommended to:

those wishing to undertake an expedition who have limited prior knowledge and experience of glacier travel
operators of ships whose guides undertake excursions ashore in Antarctica
operators of ships who wish to develop their own Search and Rescue team.
yacht operators who may need glacier travel and rescue skills in case of emergency.

Please contact us if you would like to receive glacier and rescue training in your organisation.

MODULE 1: Basic Glacier Travel & Safety

This is aimed at anyone who is not familiar with glacier travel or who requires a refresher session. In this module we cover:

Basic glacial and crevasse theory for skiers and climbers
Equipment for safe glacier travel
Roping up
Moving together
Falling & Arresting a fall
Ice axe arrest

MODULE 2: Crevasse Rescue of Roped/Harnessed Personnel

This is aimed at novices, or as a refresher session. In this module we cover. The skills of Module 1 are a pre-requisite.

Basic theory of crevasse rescue
Medical & Safety Considerations
Equipment required to perform a rescue (self rescue and casualty rescue)
Snow anchor construction
Self rescue
Casualty rescue using pulley systems
Team structure & Roles
Incident management & communication

Skiing in Antarctica above Paradise Harbour

MODULE 3: Crevasse Rescue of Unroped & Unharnessed Personnel

This is aimed at those who take visitors to the Antarctic who will be going ashore without using ropes and harnesses. Although we discourage unroped glacier travel, it is essential that all those who are responsible for such visitors - yacht crews, wildlife/tour guides - are able to deal with an incident if one occurs.The skills of Module 1 are a pre-requisite.

Basic theory of crevasse rescue of unroped/unharnessed victims
Medical & Safety Considerations
Equipment required to perform a rescue (self rescue and casualty rescue)
Snow anchor construction
Self rescue
Pulley system construction
Reaching and stabilising the casualty
Casualty extraction
Team structure & Roles
Incident management & communication

MODULE 4: Crevasse Incident Management & Co-Ordination

This is aimed at those who will be responsible for a team of novices who have received glacier travel and crevasse rescue training, but who lack the depth of knowledge and experience to assess an incident and to co-ordinate and perform a rescue safely. This is particularly applicable to the senior members of yacht crews and expedition guides. It is expected that anyone attending Module 4 has full knowledge of Module 1 and Module 2 or 3, and can demonstrate roped glacier travel and crevasse rescue. This module will involve personal coaching depending on the individual's knowledge, ability and prior experience.