Q:  I would like to participate, but I am not from the United States. What are my options?
A:  The National Ski Patrol System has no citizenship requirements.  All of our education course curriculum is written in English.  So as long as you have a better than average command of the English language and can meet the requirements to join, we'll be happy to assist you on your NSPS journey!  Visit our NSP Candidates page 
for more details.

Q:  I can't/don't ski or snowboard, can I still join?
A:  Sure you can!  There are many aspects of the work done by the National Ski Patrol don't require ski or snowboarding skills.  The classification status of "Patroller" is awarded to volunteers who embrace the Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) aspects of our work, but who choose not to participate in the Outdoor Emergency Transport (OET) program.  You may join and participate as a Patroller for as long as you like.  Should you later decide to achieve the Alpine/Nordic Patroller classification, you may do so at any time and we'll be there to help you make it happen.

Q:  I'm a member of the National Ski Patrol in the United States, can I keep my qualifications current with the European Division?
A:  Absolutely!  Contact the Director of the Patrol you are interested in working with to confirm your qualifications and coordinate your arrangements.

Q:  I'm already an [EMT, Paramedic, Doctor, Nurse, etc]; do I really need to go through your Medical Training Program?
A:  The National Ski Patrol Outdoor Emergency Care Program (OEC) is designed specifically to address the unique aspects of emergency medicine in austere environments.  Your background will be of great advantage to you in the course, but you will likely encounter new material.  Many of the European Division members have backgrounds in Medicine and Emergency Medicine, but we all participate in the OEC Program.  The NSPS does offer a "course challenge" option in lieu of the full course if you feel you already have a command of the material.  If you participate in a course challenge, you'll have an opportunity to take the examination portions of the OEC course without attending any of the classes.   Passing the OEC challenge exam and successful completion of the OEC practical (hands on) evaluations will grant you the classification of "OEC Technician" and you'll be able to continue your training journey from there.

Q:   I've got medical experience, and I'd like to help out with your training program.  What are my options?
A:  Guest Instructors are always welcome but consider an NSP  "Medical Associate" membership.  Contact the Patrol Director nearest you for details.

Q:  Can I make a donation instead of joining?
A:  Sure!  We encourage community participation in every form, so you may make a donation with or without a guiding statement indicating how you'd like that donation used.  Contact the Patrol Director nearest you for details.

Infrequently Asked Questions

Don't feel bad, there are lots of questions out there, and most of them aren't asked nearly frequently enough.  If you have a question that wasn't addressed, make contact for answers and email us on info@nspeurope.org.

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