Building Confidence, Safety, and Leadership: UMaine Squatters Complete Wilderness First Aid Training
Last November, the University of Maine Backcountry Squatters officers took an important step toward becoming stronger, safer leaders in the outdoors by completing a two-day Wilderness First Aid (WFA) course. Thanks to a $900 award from the Backcountry Squatters Chapter Grant Program, five of seven officers were able to participate in this hands-on, scenario-based training focused on medical care in backcountry settings.
Over the course of the weekend, officers learned a structured patient assessment system and practiced identifying and managing life-threatening situations in environments where professional medical care isn’t immediately available. The training covered treatment for common outdoor injuries, including lacerations, burns, sprains, and fractures, as well as environmental emergencies like hypothermia, heat illness, dehydration, and allergic reactions.
One of the highlights of the course was learning how to improvise splints using limited gear, a skill that proved both challenging and surprisingly fun. Officers also practiced performing traction on broken bones before splinting, gaining hands-on experience with techniques that many had only read about before.
Much of the course was built around realistic, high-pressure scenarios where teams were required to assess multiple patients, communicate clearly, and make decisions with incomplete information. These simulations pushed participants to think critically, work together, and stay calm, all essential skills for leading trips and supporting others in the outdoors.
By the end of the weekend, our officers walked away not only with new technical skills, but with a renewed sense of confidence in their ability to lead safely. Knowing how to respond in an emergency allows us to better support our members and create outdoor experiences that are both empowering and responsible.
This training was invaluable for our chapter. The skills we gained are directly applicable to the trips and events we offer, and the experience made us feel more prepared to care for our members in real-world situations. Beyond technical knowledge, the course strengthened our leadership skills and reinforced the responsibility we carry as trip leaders.
We’re incredibly grateful for the Chapter Grant Program and the support it provides. This experience made us better outdoor leaders, better teammates, and more confident Squatters, and it will have a lasting impact on our chapter and the community we serve at UMaine.
