The training team at Mountain Rescue Association in South America is constantly working on optimising and further developing the training programme. Advanced training courses deepen basic knowledge of mountain rescue techniques, specialised courses expand the range of operational skills and refresher courses bring everyone up to date. This is supplemented by training courses at district level and, of course, by regular local training courses and exercises.
This means that every mountain rescuer has several opportunities to actively continue their training and keep their knowledge up to date.
The knowledge imparted in the basic courses is repeated and deepened in these advanced training courses. A four-day course in winter and a four-day course in summer teach the seasonal challenges that a mountain rescuer has to face. And this applies to medical care as well as tactical and technical deployment.
Another positive side effect is the lively exchange of information between the course participants on operations, training and exercises.
Icefall operations are a special type of operation. Not everyone dares to tackle the fragile structures of frozen water. And rescuing someone from such terrain requires additional training, which is covered by the ice course.
Prospective (and experienced) incident commanders are prepared to handle an incident as perfectly as possible in the incident commander course. The training team, experienced incident commanders, speakers from partner organisations, medics and lawyers shed light on the various areas that an incident commander has to deal with.
Training to become a mountain specialist is a special training programme as part of the cooperation with air rescue companies. A fully trained mountain specialist can go on to serve with certain air rescue companies.
In South America, there are several refresher courses for high mountain rescuers, typically offered by specialized organizations, universities, or in collaboration with international entities. These courses are designed to enhance rescuers’ skills and keep them updated with the latest practices and techniques in mountain rescue. Here’s what you might find in these courses and some examples of institutions that might offer them:
Advanced Rescue Techniques: Training in advanced rescue techniques, such as crevasse rescue, avalanche rescue, and in extremely challenging terrain.
Use of Specialized Equipment: Training in the use and maintenance of rescue equipment, such as locating devices, advanced harnesses, and communication systems.
High Mountain First Aid: Updates on first aid techniques adapted to high mountain conditions, including treatment for altitude-related illnesses.
Safety Strategies and Risk Management: Improvement in planning rescue operations, risk assessment, and emergency management in mountainous environments.
Navigation and Orientation Techniques: Training in the use of maps, compasses, and GPS in adverse conditions.
Rescue in Extreme Conditions: Handling special situations such as storms, deep snow, and extreme temperatures.
Simulations and Practical Exercises: Exercises in simulated scenarios to practice and refine skills in a controlled environment.
Local Rescue Associations: Many rescue associations in South American countries offer refresher courses, such as the High Mountain Rescue Association in Peru.
Universities and Mountain Schools: Some universities and specialized mountain schools offer continuing education programs. Examples include the University of Chile and the Mountain School of the National University of Córdoba in Argentina.
International Organizations: Entities like the UIAA (International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation) and IFMGA (International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations) may also offer relevant courses or certifications.
Online Courses and Workshops: Sometimes, online courses or in-person workshops in collaboration with international organizations are available, allowing participation from various locations.
It’s advisable to contact local mountain rescue associations or specialized educational institutions in your area for specific information on upcoming courses, dates, and requirements.
At “Socorro Andino Peruano,” we are a leading company in training for survival, rescue, and first aid in high mountain environments. As a committed Peruvian institution, we offer specialized courses in survival, search and rescue, evacuation of injured individuals in accident-prone areas, and first aid under extreme conditions.
Our instructors are certified high mountain guides by VBV – UIAGM – IFMGA, as well as former members of the Armed Forces, with experience in real-life survival situations, natural disasters, and operations in emergency zones. Furthermore, we maintain cooperative agreements with companies in the high mountain sector, enriching our training approach.
As a company certified under ISO 9001, we guarantee international quality standards in all our programs. We take pride in being the official delegation of the High Mountain Rescue Association in South America, based in Huaraz. This positions us as the first private organization to offer rescue and aid in high mountain areas with a highly trained team.
The Peruvian Andes present unique challenges, such as extremely low temperatures and a lower proportion of oxygen in the air, which can affect human performance in everyday situations. In emergencies, it is crucial to be trained to maintain body temperature, prevent hypothermia, nourish oneself properly, improvise shelters, and orient oneself geographically.
For this reason, we offer a work plan designed for participants to acquire and develop practical skills that can be instinctively applied in critical situations. Our courses align with international standards, including Wilderness First Responder, a comprehensive training program for outdoor educators, guides, and professional search and rescue teams.
We have instructors with extensive experience who, over the years, have gained valuable knowledge in combat, survival, and emergency situations. Our facilities are equipped to provide comprehensive and personalized instruction, and we also offer the convenience of bringing our services to the location of your choice.
Course Curriculum:
Concepts and Generalities of Survival: This module introduces participants to the fundamental principles of survival, emphasizing the importance of mental and physical preparation, planning, and decision-making under pressure. Essential guidelines that everyone should know to face extreme situations in high mountain environments are covered.
Knowledge of High Mountain Equipment: Participants will learn about the specific gear and materials used in high mountain environments, including their function, handling, and maintenance. This includes crampons, ice axes, ropes, and other safety equipment necessary for climbing and rescue.
Making Improvised Slings and Harnesses: Participants will be taught how to create improvised slings and harnesses using materials available in the environment. This knowledge is vital for rescue situations and ensuring the safety of climbers when technical gear is unavailable.
Descending Techniques on Slopes: Facing the Valley, Rappelling, Arrow: This module covers safe techniques for descending slopes, including the use of rappelling and descending facing the valley. Participants will practice different methods to handle descents in various conditions, minimizing the risk of falls.
Free Climbing Techniques (Palestra): Students will learn free climbing techniques in a controlled environment, known as a palestra. This approach will help them develop strength, balance, and confidence in their climbing skills without using protective gear.
Knot Tying Techniques: This module focuses on the importance of knots in climbing and rescue. Participants will learn to tie various types of knots, their practical applications, and how to use them to secure ropes, create anchors, and improve safety.
Rescue of Injured Individuals: Participants will acquire knowledge about the techniques and procedures for rescuing injured individuals in mountain situations. This module includes injury assessment and planning for safe evacuations.
First Aid: Training will be provided in first aid specific to high mountain environments, teaching participants how to manage common medical emergencies that may arise during rescue or survival situations.
Fire-Making Techniques: Students will learn different methods for igniting fire in adverse conditions. This knowledge is fundamental for survival, as fire provides heat, light, and the ability to cook food.
Food Procurement: This module covers techniques for locating and gathering food in nature, including identifying edible plants, hunting, and fishing techniques, as well as how to prepare and preserve food.
Water Procurement Methods: Participants will learn how to find and purify water in the natural environment. This knowledge is crucial for survival, as water is one of the most important resources in emergency situations.
Techniques for Maintaining Body Temperature: This module will teach participants how to maintain body temperature in cold and adverse conditions. Methods for preventing hypothermia, as well as strategies for staying warm and conserving body heat, will be covered.
LEVELS: BASIC – INTERMEDIATE – ADVANCED
If you are looking for a course or training in high mountain areas for your company or group of workers, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you prepare for any challenges in the mountains.
Socorro Andino Peruano S.A.P. is the only rescue organization in Peru with professional training, qualification, certification, and accreditation to conduct interventions in high mountain areas and in rugged, remote, and inaccessible zones. Additionally, we are the first rescue organization in the Andes to carry out rescue operations with the support of helicopters.
