1. The textbook for the course will be Outdoor Emergency Care, 6th Edition. Get the book (ebook or printed) and start reading. Instructions for ordering the text book are here: http://oecintensive.blogspot.com/p/ordering-textbook.html The book is long and complicated so pace yourself. Set yourself a schedule that make sure you are done with prescribed reading prior to each class.
2. To do well in the course, it's critical to be fully competent in the Assessment procedure. Be sure to read and absorb the Guide to Assessment before the first class. Here is a direct link. [Note for patrollers & past candidates - this new Guide to Assessment incorporates the new Spinal Protection protocols. Be sure to review.] A variety of additional study materials in Assessment, Bandaging and Splinting are posted here. These other materials will be useful later in the class.
4. Vaccinations - For your own health, it is important that you have current vaccinations well before you start patrolling. Talk to your doctor. Most patrols suggest tetanus and Hepatitis B.
5. Get a watch which will show seconds. Its primary use will be in taking vitals. While digital watches work fine for this purpose, many students find analog watches easier to use for class purposes. Most students get an inexpensive model, as it will get banged up a bit in class and subsequent patrol use.
6. Make 4 cravats. Follow the instructions at Cravats . Yes, they are very large. Best is to sacrifice an old bed sheet to make them.
7. Many people also find that a set of inexpensive knee pads are helpful (you will spend a lot of time on your knees). In addition, in some scenarios we will use moulage and so it's best to wear old clothes.
8. You'll get some additional supplies on the first day of class (e.g. bandaging supplies, etc.). No need to assemble any of this prior to class.
9. Finally, you'll also need a pack to hold your gear. Most students also use this as their pack for their first year(s) patrolling. As such, your choice of pack will depend on what your patrol uses - some use backpacks, some fanny packs, some just vests. Since most students don't know what may work best for them at their hill, most students use a small backpack for the class, usually in the 20L to 30L size. That one you have in the closet will work fine.
8. You'll get some additional supplies on the first day of class (e.g. bandaging supplies, etc.). No need to assemble any of this prior to class.
9. Finally, you'll also need a pack to hold your gear. Most students also use this as their pack for their first year(s) patrolling. As such, your choice of pack will depend on what your patrol uses - some use backpacks, some fanny packs, some just vests. Since most students don't know what may work best for them at their hill, most students use a small backpack for the class, usually in the 20L to 30L size. That one you have in the closet will work fine.
