Companion Rescue Refresher: A focused one‑day tune‑up on avalanche rescue at Panorama

PANORAMA GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Companion Rescue Refresher: A focused one‑day tune‑up on avalanche rescue at Panorama

A one‑day course that revisits transceiver technique, modern search strategies, and up‑to‑date probing and shovelling methods to sharpen companion‑rescue skills.

Companion Rescue Refresher: A focused one‑day tune‑up on avalanche rescue at Panorama.

Duration
1 Day
Location
Panorama
Operator
Playwest Mountain Experiences
Category
Guided Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Revitalize your mountain safety skills with a concentrated, one‑day Companion Rescue Refresher at Panorama. The course revisits essential transceiver use, modern search techniques, and effective probing and shovelling methods—designed to sharpen those critical abilities so you’re ready if the worst happens on the slopes.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

SKILL SHARPENING

Transceiver and Search Drills

A focused re‑introduction to digital transceiver fundamentals and modern search methods, ideal for participants who’ve already completed the AST‑1 and want to eliminate rust from their techniques.

PRACTICAL TECHNIQUES

Probing and Shovelling Workshops

Hands‑on practice of up‑to‑date probing approaches and efficient shovelling techniques so teams leave with repeatable, field‑ready skills.

FOR THE PREPARED

Designed for Those With Prior Training

The course is aimed at people who have done the AST‑1 and want a refresher; it compresses core companion‑rescue tasks into a single day to reinforce confidence and competence.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

Expect a compact, practice‑driven day that cycles between guided instruction and field drills: transceiver use and search techniques, followed by timed probing and shovelling exercises. The session is built to refresh technique and speed, with instructors guiding repetitions until core skills feel instinctive again.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this refresher suits—and who should look elsewhere.

1
Refresher StudentsBest for people who have previously completed AST‑1 and want to regain speed and confidence with companion rescue skills.
2
Ski Tourers / SplitboardersHighly recommended for ski touring and splitboard users—course materials and drills assume backcountry tool familiarity and setups are common among participants.
3
Comfortable Resort SkiersSuitable for resort skiers or riders who are comfortable on blue runs and want to improve rescue technique; not aimed at complete beginners.
4
Families with Older TeensOpen to participants aged 12 and up, making it appropriate for families with experienced, safety‑minded teens who meet the skill expectations.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Duration

This is a one‑day course.

Meeting point

Starts at Panorama Mountain Resort, Panorama BC.

What to bring

Three‑antenna digital transceiver, avalanche probe (3 m or longer recommended), avalanche shovel, skis/snowboard/snowshoes (snowshoe‑specific courses available), backpack for tools, lunch, snacks, fluids, warm layers, sunscreen, sunglasses and a toque; camera optional.

Group size & booking

Minimum of four guests required to book the trip; if the minimum is not met additional fees may apply.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Companion Rescue Refresher?

The course is a one‑day refresher.

Where do we meet for the course?

Meeting location is Panorama Mountain Resort in Panorama, BC.

What prior training is expected?

The course is designed for people who have completed AST‑1 and want a refresher.

What essential avalanche tools must I bring?

Bring a three‑antenna digital transceiver, an avalanche probe (3 m or longer recommended), and an avalanche shovel; also pack a backpack to carry them.

Is there a minimum group size to run the course?

Yes—there is a minimum requirement of four guests; if the minimum is not met additional fees may apply.

What level of skiing or riding ability is required?

Participants should be comfortable skiing or riding blue runs.