Advanced Wilderness Life Support (AWLS)

The decision to evacuate is a difficult one at best.  But when, how and by what method makes the decision more complex.  In this podcast, cases are discussed  that point out some of the difficulties. 

Listen as Black Diamond Equipment's founder, Peter Metcalf, tells the amazing story of surviving the first alpine style ascent of the south face of Alaska's Mt. Hunter. 

Listen as Dr. Alex Charmoz details the latest treatments for this terrible cold injury.

What would you do if a climbing partner was injured deep in a mountain range, stranded in a precarious position, and far from help?  How would you get him out?  Listen as Dr. Alex Charmoz describes this dramatic rescue from the Bugaboo Mountains in British Columbia, Canada. 

In August 2017, Doug Julian, a healthy 17 year old boy climbed with scouts to 10,500 feet (3,200 m).  He died of altitude illness.   In this podcast Doug's father tells his story. 

If you were about to hike 2,640 miles (4250 km) would you know what to bring, what illness or injuries to expect?  Listen  to  Forest Streeter's experience in the Summer of 2021 as he did the unbelievable, hiked the Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada. 

A search and rescue is impossible without supervision to oversee all of the many nuances and problems that arise.  Incident Command or IC, is essential.  This podcast outline the operation and organization  of a rescue.   

Probably the most asked question in wilderness medicine is, "What should I put in a first aid kit."  There is no one simple answer to this question.   But there are a bunch of guidelines that will help you put together a great medical kit for your adventure.

Are you protected from helping people who are injured in the backcountry?  Well, maybe, it all depends.  This podcasts discusses the nuances of law and the wilderness.

Diarrhea at home is a terrible nuisance!  But in the wilderness, it quickly can become a major medical issue.  What are common causes and treatments for diarrhea while in the backcountry? What medicines are appropriate?  When do you evacuate?  This podcast 'runs' with this important subject.