Specifics on Class Location at the NetApp Campus

As you know from the tab above, we'll hold the class at NetApp campus in Sunnyvale.  Specifically, we'll be in the Java7 building cafeteria.  Our host provided these instructions/directions:

"...As you turn on Crossman from Java, the first set of buildings on
your left hand side are Java 1 and 2. Then there is a parking
garage and Java 7 followed by Java 8. I'd suggest to people that
they park between Java 7 and Java 8 and go into the
Cafeteria directly from the side entrance..."

Preparations for Class Start Next Week

We have 13 candidates and great instructor crew assembled and are looking forward to a great class.  In preparation for the start of class next week, I'd like to point out/reiterate a few items to focus on: 

- As you know, our first class is next Tuesday, Aug. 18.  We'll start class at 7PM, but I'd advise you show up a 15 mins or so early to take care of some paperwork, get to know a few folks, and get settled.  Note also that this week only, class is on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings.  Tuesday and Thursday thereafter.  Location specifics/directions on the blog. 

- As you saw in the "Class Materials" section of the blog, be sure you have read the initial chapters in the book, and in particular, it's particularly important to spend some extra time to read and fully digest the "Guide to Assessment".   Assessment is a foundation of medical treatment, and is critical to have down 100% so that you can determine and direct appropriate treatment.  We spend the first class sessions on this important skill, and it's important that you arrive at class with this well studied so that we can hit the ground running.

- As you also saw in the blog, our class is driven in large part by scenarios - simulated situations where you'll be applying the skills you're learning in class.  With this approach, you'll get dirty - spending time on the floor, with moulage, etc.  As such, it's best to wear old clothes that you're comfortable exposing to such situations. 

- Finally, we have a set of supplies you'll be receiving Tuesday. Bring something to carry it all in such as what's described in the blog, i.e. backpack good; shopping bag not. 

Looking forward to having you all in class this year.  Shoot me a note with any questions you may have,
Bill

2015 Class Course Preparations

We're looking forward to a great class this year.  It looks like we'll end up with 10 - 12 candidates and another great instructor crew. 

As we near the class start, here are a few specifics to note.   We'll post future updates here as well, so be sure to check regularly.

- As you know, the class we be held August 18 to November 14, 2015.  We'll meet 2 nights/week, usually on Tuesday and  Thursday nights, from 7 to 10, plus one weekend. The class syllabus is posted on the tab above.

- The class will be held at the NetApp campus in Sunnyvale.  Address and map are posted on the tab above.  Thanks to NetApp for the support.

- Guidelines for pre-class preparation are posted on the "Course Materials" tab above.   Be sure to give this a close read, and budget the time for the preparation it suggests.  Take special note of the reading required before the first class.  Getting a head start on the book reading will pay big dividends.  And specifically, please be sure to fully read and digest the "Guide to Assessment" prior to the first class. 

- Most patrols require a CPR certification.  For this year's class, we'll require CPR certification before the midterm (Oct 3).   Note the guidelines on the "Course Materials" tab above.  We'll also discuss further in class.

We're looking forward to meeting you all and having a great class this year.  If you have any questions, feel free to shoot me a note.

OEC SouthBay 2015 Is A Go

As most of you know, we've had light interest this year in OEC classes across Northern California.   Some have attributed this to the recent poor snow years, others to some resorts focusing on current team training & not taking candidate classes this year.

As a result, we've had to make some unprecedented tough decision to consolidate classes.  The net is that there will be two OEC classes in NorCal this year - one in Truckee (David Stepner's 2 week Intensive class) and one in Sunnyvale (OEC SouthBay's class).

To register for the Sunnyvale class, following the instructions on the Registration link above.

Looking forward to a great class this year.

Fall 2015 Class

OEC Southbay 2015 is quickly approaching.  Here are some preliminary details for candidates & instructors:

- Preliminary syllabus, schedule, and location is posted on the tab above.

- Guidance on preparing for the course is on the "Course Materials" tab above.  Be sure to give it a close read and get started on the items noted there.

- Details on how to register are on the tab "Registration Fees & Information"

One note for this year's class - which I understand is common with many of the Fall OEC courses across Northern California - registration is low.  Some have speculated that his may be because of the recent poor snow years or perhaps because some resorts are focusing on training existing teams and not taking candidate classes this year.  In any case, we will need at least 5 candidates to run the Southbay class this year.  Thus if you are a candidate, or know of interested candidates, email me right away so we can get an accurate picture of what we are working with.

Thanks all and looking forward to another great class this year.

Outdoor Emergency Care on Flipboard

For grins, I created a custom magazine on Flipboard on Outdoor Emergency Care. You're probably familiar with Flipboard , a (primarily) tablet app which enables viewers to browse subjects of interest as "magazines".  Some of these are curated by the Flipboard staff, others by individuals on topics of their own interest.  I did the latter for OEC.   I've got a few articles there now, and as I run across articles of interest/relevance, I will be adding them to this "magazine".

Have a look at the link below.  Best viewed on a tablet, but also viewable by web.  Let me know what you think.  I've sent this to a few folks and feedback to date is positive.   My thinking is to get some initial commentary on this, and then develop a contributor network to provide crowd-sourced content of interest.

Link here: http://flip.it/9cPvK

Happy Holidays