Birkie Med Friends

We know there are countless skiers and bikers in the Birkie community with valuable skills that can make a difference in the event of a trailside medical emergency. We want YOU to become a Med Friend!

This initiative empowers trail users with medical training to optimize responses during medical emergencies. The Birkie bike and ski trails traverse rural regions where ambulance response times can be slow. Your skills can help bridge that gap.

We’re looking for individuals with the following skills:

• Ability to identify emergencies or life-threatening situations
• Proficiency in effectively sharing location details with 911
• Basic Life Support (high-quality CPR and AED use)
• Awareness of C-spine precautions

Well-qualified candidates include:

• EMS personnel
• ER or ICU nurses/providers
• Respiratory Therapists (RT)
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA)
• Wilderness First Responders
• National Ski Patrol members

If you’re interested in becoming a Med Friend, please send an email to the Birkie Medical Team at birkiemedfriend@gmail.com.

As a Med Friend, you’ll receive pre-event medical briefings, including medical plans for race day and updates on drone-AED status.

Join us in enhancing safety on the trails! Your expertise can make a real difference.

The Birkie Medical Team acquired small, portable AED units for use in the event of a cardiac emergency.

AEDs are located: 

• in the Mt. Telemark Village Hub, adjacent to the restrooms
• in the Derksen Timing Building, ground floor
• in John Family Outdoor Center at OO in the main lobby, adjacent to the restrooms

Watch the video for a guide on how to utilize the HeartSine SAM 450P AED.