What it takes to be a Ski Patrol at Mount Kato

Click here to download an application to become a Patroller Click here to download a copy of our background check policy Please mail your applications to Rich Krause • 237 Allen Ave. • North Mankato, MN 56003
So? What does it take to become a Ski Patroller?
Myths	Truths
Patrollers are paid by the ski area.	At Mount Kato, the patrol is almost completely volunteer. The patrollers on snowmobiles are paid by the area management. But, we do get to ski/snowboard for free every year. And there are always those fancy red coats!
Patrollers only know basic first aid.	That was true at one time. The National Ski Patrol requires that each patroller complete an 80+ hour course in Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC). The course covers all aspects of emergency care. We have EMT's on the Mount Kato Ski Patrol as well. They have said their school work to become EMT's was just as hard (if not easier) than the OEC course.
I have to be an expert skier/snowboard to be a patroller.	It doesn't hurt to be an expert, but most intermediate skiers/snowboarders have what it takes to do the job. Confidence goes a long way. The National Ski Patrol also aids in the development of all the skills required to be a patroller. Even if you cannot pass the on-the-hill portion of the testing, there is still room for you as an Auxiliary member.
Check out what the National Ski Patrol has to say about becoming a patroller. Click Here!
Some Specifics
To become a patroller there is an initial application process, including a criminal background check. The first half is the medical portion of becoming a patroller, an 80+ hour course in Outdoor Emergency Care. The course covers many things, including treatment of shock, bleeding control, Professional CPR and AED administration, management of broken bones, management of head and spinal cord injuries, and much more. Click the "Calendar" link above and navigate to the months of September, October, and November of 2008 to see a complete outline of the courses. The second half is an on-the-hill skills assessment. The instructors in this portion of the course look at the candidates overall skiing/snowboarding proficiency. You do not need to be an expert! It helps, but it's not mandatory. You do need to feel comfortable on a pair of skis and able to traverse difficult terrain while wearing a backpack or while handling a toboggan with a patient. All of these skills are taught through many weeks of on-the-hill, hands-on training. Feel free to stop out at Mount Kato at any time they are open and speak to any one of the patrollers on duty. We would be happy to answer any questions you might have.