Ridge Wilderness

12/20/2024

🎄✨ Merry Christmas from Ridge! ✨🎄

Our team is taking a break to enjoy the holiday season with family, friends, and a little extra eggnog! 🎁💫 Our office will be closed from December 21st to January 6th, and we’ll be back in the New Year, ready to dive into another year of adventures and first aid excellence!

We wish all of our incredible community members a safe, joyful, and relaxing holiday season. Thank you for an amazing year—we couldn’t have done it without you! 🎉

Stay safe, stay cozy, and we’ll see you in 2025!

💚 The Ridge Team

12/20/2024

Someone looks a little too chipper to be this “injured”!

🚨: Remote First Aid
🗺️: West Vancouver
📸:

12/04/2024

Breaking Down the New OHS First Aid Updates: What You Need to Know

The latest amendments to workplace first aid regulations have brought some changes to how we train and certify. Here's a quick overview of what’s new, how it affects you, and what we’re doing at Ridge to keep things smooth:

🔸 No More Recertification for Workplace Courses
Right now, all participants must take the full course to achieve workplace recognition. While recertification courses still exist for Emergency First Aid (EFA) and Standard First Aid (SFA), they won’t carry workplace equivalency.

🔸 Workplace Course Equivalencies

➡Emergency First Aid (EFA): Now recognized as Basic First Aid equivalency.
➡Standard First Aid (SFA): Equivalent to Intermediate First Aid under the new standards.

Both include CPR C and AED certification as part of the course package.

🚨What This Means for You🚨
If you’ve been waiting to recertify, now’s the perfect time to take the full course to ensure workplace equivalency under the updated standards. It’s a win-win: updated skills and proper recognition!

Want to learn more or sign up for a course? Visit us at www.ridgefirstaid.com. Let’s get you ready to handle emergencies, meet workplace requirements, and feel confident in any situation! 💪

11/29/2024

🎉 LAST CALL for our final Public Remote First Aid (RFA) of 2024! 🎉

Join us in West Vancouver, December 6-8 for a weekend of lifesaving skills, laughs, and unforgettable learning moments! 🚑✨

🕒 Schedule:
Friday: 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Saturday + Sunday: 8:30 AM - 6:30 PM

🚨 Only 4 spots left – claim yours now before they’re gone!

💡 Why take RFA?
This isn’t your average First Aid course. The Canadian Red Cross Remote First Aid (RFA) is perfect for adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone who needs a little extra prep for unexpected moments far from help. Whether you're trekking through the wild or working in remote locations, this training has you covered.

✨ Bonus: Add Standard First Aid certification (for a small fee) and tick off both your wilderness and workplace certification boxes in one go! 💼 The Standards First Aid certification is recognized as an Intermediate First Aid equivalency, so you’ll leave with confidence and credentials!

What you’ll learn:
✅ Treating injuries and illnesses in remote settings
✅ Managing emergencies with limited resources
✅ Wilderness scenarios designed for real-life practice

⛑️ Skill up. Stand out. Stay safe.

📲 Register now: https://ridgefirstaid.com/events/remote-first-aid-vancouver-17/

🔥 Don’t wait — these final spots won’t last! Spread the word and tag your adventure crew. 💬 Who’s in?

This course offers a comprehensive training in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for individuals residing or working

11/13/2024

Alright Ridge community, we are leaving this caption up to you...

🚨: Wilderness First Responder
🗺: Revelstoke, BC
📸:

11/06/2024

🎉🎂 Happy Birthday to the one and only Rachel Campbell! 🎂🎉

Today, we’re celebrating Rachel — our Operations Coordinator, First Aid Instructor, Canoe Instructor, and Guide — and everything that makes her such a valuable part of the Ridge Wilderness team. If you’ve spent any time with Rachel, you know she’s a spark that brings humor, energy, and a ton of fun to everything she does. Whether she’s pulling off a prank with Annie (our trusty first aid doll) or capturing epic photos of our adventures, Rachel is all about making memories while sharing her love of the outdoors. 📸✨

Based in beautiful Chilliwack, BC, Rachel has spent over a decade immersed in education, outdoor adventure, and rescue operations. From her work in Special Education and Outdoor Education to being an active member of Chilliwack Search and Rescue (swift water, rope, helicopter rescues...you name it!), Rachel’s skills are top-notch. And, let’s not forget, she’s a Licensed Emergency Medical Responder, so she’s got you covered in any situation, whether it’s a rescue mission or a first aid demo with a doll! 💪

But it’s not just about her qualifications — Rachel’s true passion lies in sharing the wonders of the wilderness. Cold-water swimming, canoeing, backcountry adventures, and wilderness survival skills are just a few of the things that get her excited to teach and guide others. Her time with Ridge Wilderness has been a dream come true, where she combines her love for teaching, exploring, and making people laugh.

So, let’s raise a paddle and wish Rachel the happiest of birthdays! 🥳🎉 If you’re lucky enough to join her on a course or adventure, expect to learn new skills, laugh along the way, and capture memories you’ll never forget.

Here’s to you, Rachel — we’re so lucky to have you on the team and to celebrate YOU today! 🌲🚣‍♀️

11/05/2024

Throwback to some of our Remote First Aid courses in Nanaimo over the last year! Here’s a look at the moments that made it memorable. 📸 Whether it’s skill-building or camaraderie, there’s always something special about each course!

Looking to join us in Nanaimo? We have one final course coming your way in 2024!

Remote First Aid 20hr: November 15th - 17th
*Recerts available
&
Remote First Aid to Wilderness First Aid Bridging Course 20hr: November 30th - December 1st. (WFA Recert available.

www.ridgefirstaid.com

11/02/2024

There’s something truly powerful about the quiet moments, when dedicated SAR members pause between the calls and the training. The commitment they make goes far beyond the hours spent honing their skills—it’s the weekends sacrificed, the challenging conditions faced, and the strength needed to respond whenever the community calls. We're grateful for every SAR team who chooses Ridge for their training, and we want to extend a special thank you to Kitimat SAR for hosting us this past weekend. Here’s to the ones who watch over us, rain or shine. 🌅

Have a safe and adventurous weekend!

🚨: RFA to WFA Bridge
🗺: Kitimat, BC
📸:

10/31/2024

One of those backcountry scenarios no one wants to face (but we’re ready for it!). Whether it’s you, a friend, or a stranger with a serious trail mishap, it's about staying calm, handling the injury, and maybe keeping the group from cringing too hard!

And hey, Fraser Valley friends—if you've been thinking of taking Remote First Aid, now’s the time! With new First Aid regulations rolling out November 1st, this course is a two-for-one win. For a small additional fee, you’ll also receive your Standard First Aid certificate, which is now recognized as Intermediate First Aid (formerly OFA level 2)!

Join us in Abbotsford at MEI this weekend—it’s practical, it’s smart, and the weather’s on our side! ☀️ Only 3 spaces remain!

10/21/2024

🌲 Meet Jackie Hamm: Our Operations Manager, First Aid Instructor, and Guide 🌲

We’re thrilled to introduce Jackie, who will be hosting our Wilderness First Aid Info Session at Valhalla Pure Outfitters in Abbotsford this Thursday, October 24th, from 6-7pm!

Jackie plays a key role in our daily operations at Ridge Wilderness, while also instructing courses and guiding outdoor adventures. With a diploma in Outdoor Leadership from Columbia Bible College, Jackie has honed her skills in a variety of outdoor activities and earned multiple certifications in the wilderness and first aid industry.

When she’s not keeping things running behind the scenes or leading courses, Jackie is out paddling, hiking, or learning new outdoor skills. Her passion is helping people feel confident in the wilderness—whether it’s teaching them how to paddle or equipping them with essential first aid skills.

Join us this Thursday for an evening with Jackie, where she’ll walk you through the essentials of Wilderness First Aid, including a live demonstration on handling hypothermia in the field. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn, ask questions, and get a taste of our upcoming courses!

📍 Event Location: Valhalla Pure Outfitters, Abbotsford
⏰ Time: 6:00-7:00pm
📅 Date: Thursday, October 24th
➡️ Contact Valhalla Pure to register at (604)850-5523

Don’t miss this chance to connect with an expert and gain valuable insights for your next adventure. 💪🌿

10/17/2024

🚑 Get Certified in Workplace First Aid this November! 🛡️

Whether you're looking to refresh your CPR skills or need full workplace certification, we've got you covered with our upcoming Workplace First Aid courses!

🗓 Course Dates:

➡CPR C: November 4th (7:30 am - 12:30 pm)
➡Emergency First Aid: November 4th (7:30 am - 3:30 pm)
➡Standard First Aid: November 4th + 5th (Day 1: 7:30am - 3:30pm, Day 2: 7:30am - 2pm)

Be prepared for emergencies with these essential, hands-on training courses that meet WorkSafeBC and OFA Level 1 requirements (soon to be Basic First Aid). Ideal for all industries and workplaces!

💡 What’s Included:

Practical, real-life scenarios
Certification valid for 3 years
Learn skills to save lives!

🗺 Location: South Abbotsford Church

Don't miss out—sign up now at ridgefirstaid.com and get certified!

Tag your coworkers or friends who need their workplace first aid certifications.

Canadian Red Cross certified Basic First Aid, recognized by WorkSafeBC. CPR C and choking response. Prepare for emergencies with confidence.

10/10/2024

09/27/2024

As we approach National Truth and Reconciliation Day on Monday, September 30th, we take time to reflect on the history, resilience, and cultures of Indigenous Peoples across Canada. This weekend is an opportunity for us all to honor the experiences of survivors of residential schools and their families and to recognize the ongoing journey toward healing and understanding.

Let’s take a moment to listen, learn, and contribute to meaningful reconciliation. 🧡

09/26/2024

🌲 First Aid Courses in Nanaimo! 🌲

Sharpen your first aid skills with our Remote First Aid and Wilderness First Aid Bridge courses this October in Nanaimo! Whether you're new to first aid, need to recertify, or want to take your skills to the next level, we've got you covered.

🗓 Course Dates & Times:

Remote First Aid (RFA) + RFA Recertification
📅 October 11th - 13th

➡Oct 11th: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
➡Oct 12th + 13th: 8:30 am - 6:30 pm

Perfect for anyone working or playing in remote areas! This hands-on course teaches you how to manage emergencies when help is far away. Recertifying? Join us the same weekend to keep your certification valid!

Wilderness First Aid (WFA) Bridge & WFA Recertification
📅 October 18th - 20th

➡Oct 18th: 1:30 pm - 6:30 pm
➡Oct 19th + 20th: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

Bridge your Remote First Aid skills to a full Wilderness First Aid certification, or renew your WFA certification. Gain an additional 20 hours of wilderness-specific training, valid for 3 years!

💡 Key Highlights:

✔Hands-on, practical training
✔Real-life emergency scenarios
✔Standard First Aid certificate with OFA Level 1 equivalency available (RFA participants)
✔3-year certification for all courses

Don't wait—register today at ridgefirstaid.com! Spaces are limited, and these courses fill up fast.

Tag a friend and join us in Nanaimo to stay prepared for the unexpected! 🌲👊

Explore comprehensive first aid courses with Ridge First Aid. Learn essential skills for wilderness, remote, home and workplace settings.

09/25/2024

Bringing a little sunshine to this gloomy fall day! 🌞✨ These awesome Girl Guides completed their Intro Tandem Canoe Course back on September 7th, soaking up the sun and mastering their skills on the water. Rain or shine, we’re all about those adventure vibes! 🚣‍♂️

📸:

09/24/2024

🆘 Remote First Aid Course in Abbotsford! 🚑

Get ready to elevate your emergency response skills with our Remote First Aid course this October 11th - 13th in Abbotsford, BC!

🗓 Course Dates & Times:

October 11th: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
October 12th + 13th: 8:30 am - 6:30 pm

Designed for those who work or play in remote settings, this course will give you the confidence and skills to handle emergencies when help is far away. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, remote workers, and anyone looking to be prepared! PLUS, participants can also earn a Standard First Aid certificate with OFA Level 1 equivalency—perfect for meeting workplace requirements!

👥 Hands-on Training 💡 Practical Scenarios 📜 Certification Valid for 3 Years

Don't miss out! Spaces are limited—register now at ridgefirstaid.com and be prepared for whatever comes your way.

Tag a friend who should join you and get certified together! 🛡️👫

This course offers a comprehensive training in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for individuals residing or working

09/23/2024

LAST CALL TO JOIN US NEXT WEEK!

🚨 Important Updates to WorkSafeBC First Aid Training! 🚨

Starting November 1st, 2024, WorkSafeBC is introducing major updates to Occupational First Aid (OFA) courses, aligning with the new Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standards. Here’s what’s changing:

⚡ Course Renaming & Shorter Durations:

➡OFA Level 1 becomes Basic First Aid (still just 1 day, 8 hours)
➡OFA Level 2 transforms into Intermediate First Aid (now streamlined to 2 days, 16 hours)
➡OFA Level 3 evolves into Advanced First Aid (keeping its 10-day, 70-hour structure)

All current certifications will remain valid and recognized by WorkSafeBC as equivalent to the new course names until recertification is required.

📅 Upcoming Courses in Abbotsford @ South Abbotsford Church:

✔October 1st: CPR C – ideal for anyone needing quick certification.
✔October 1st: Emergency First Aid w/ CPR C + AED (this will be your future Basic First Aid equivalency)
✔October 1st + 2nd: Standard First Aid (soon to be Intermediate First Aid equivalency)

Take advantage of these updates and get certified with confidence! 🌟

Register at www.ridgefirstaid.com !

09/18/2024

🌲 Port Hardy: Where Adventure Meets Preparedness! 🌲

Get ready to take your outdoor skills to the next level with our top-tier First Aid courses in Port Hardy this November. Whether you're a weekend warrior, a remote worker, or a wilderness pro, we’ve got you covered!

🔥 40hr Wilderness First Aid - $799.95
Nov 13-16: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM | Nov 17: 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Dive deep into the ultimate survival toolkit. From remote rescues to handling wilderness emergencies, this is the course for those who venture far beyond the beaten path. Don’t just explore the wild—conquer it!

🌲 20hr Remote First Aid - $429.95
Nov 13-14: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM | Nov 15: 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Perfect for anyone living or working off the grid. Gain the confidence and skills to handle emergencies when help isn’t just a phone call away.

⚡ 20hr Wilderness First Aid Bridge Course - $429.95
Nov 15: 12:00 - 6:00 PM | Nov 16: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM | Nov 17: 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Already certified in Remote First Aid? Bridge the gap to Wilderness First Aid and unlock new skills to tackle the toughest challenges Mother Nature can throw at you.

Don’t miss out on these life-saving courses—spots are filling up fast! 🔗 Sign up now and be prepared for your next adventure!

www.ridgefirstaid.com