This looks really complicated. Is there a simple explanation of what I have to do?
Yes! See this page.
I missed the ICO First Aid & CPR class. What should I do?
It is your responsibility to get the certifications. Here is a list of local CPR & First Aid Providers. Find a class the fits your schedule and sign up.
Where can I get certified in CPR and/or First Aid?
I have a new CPR or First Aid certification card, how do I update the online roster?
The Records Keepers (Ryan Clark and Malcolm Davis) need to have a copy of the card. They will update the roster.
Email (or text) a picture (or scan) of the card to Ryan or Malcolm.
Do I need to send a copy of my Sierra Club membership card?
No. All ICO needs is your Sierra Club membership number (not your credit card confirmation number), and the records keepers can confirm your membership with the Sierra Club. However, it takes two to four weeks for membership information to show up in the Sierra Club's database, so please renew early.
If I am missing a card/certification, can I still guide?
No.
A Trip Leader kicked me off a trip because I'm missing a card. Is that fair?
Yes.
What kind of First Aid Certification do I need?
ICO requires Standard First Aid or a more advanced certification. Standard First Aid is typically a two hour class.
Is Wilderness First Aid ok?
Yes! Wilderness First Aid definitely satisfies the ICO First Aid requirement. WFA is typically a 16 hour class.
What kind of CPR certification do I need?
ICO requires Adult CPR for lay responder or more advanced certification. It is typically a two hour class. The class cannot be fully online. Some portion of the course must be in person. Hybrid courses or courses with a skills challenge are acceptable. This requirement does not apply to first aid.
You do not need a professional certification. Professional courses are acceptable, but layperson courses are sufficient. The American Heart Association (AHA) calls their layperson courses "HeartSaver." The American Red Cross (ARC) and the Health & Safety Institute (HSI) do not have specific names for their layperson courses. Courses that are named BLS, ACLS, and PALS are professional level.
How do I become a member of the Sierra Club?
First time members can register online here (ICO will get a portion of your membership dues). Or renew your membership here.
What is the background check?
ICO screens for violent crimes and sex crimes.
The process is completed online, and initiated by Ryan.
Ryan only sees a pass/fail result. Only Sierra Club staff can see the content of the criminal background check.
Once started, the criminal background check will continue regularly until you ask to stop it.
Does ICO use fingerprints or LiveScan for background checks?
No.
Do background and DMV checks have to be renewed?
The service that we use for criminal background checks will continuously monitor your background until you ask to stop it. Therefore the criminal background check does not need to be renewed.
DMV background checks do not have continuous monitoring. They must be renewed every four years.
What if I don't have a Driver's License? What if my license is suspended?
You do not need a valid driver's license to volunteer for ICO, but you must have a valid driver's license and current DMV records check to drive on ICO trips.
Can ICO give financial assistance for the Standard First Aid Class?
Yes. Ask the Finance Committee. ICO also offers inexpensive classes from time to time.
Can ICO give financial assistance for the CPR class?
Yes. Ask the Finance Committee. ICO also offers inexpensive classes from time to time.
Can ICO give financial assistance for the Sierra Club membership?
Yes. Ask the Finance Committee. The Sierra Club also offers a reduced membership rate for students and those with limited income.
What is the COE?
The ICO Code of Ethics. It lays out the acceptable behavior for ICO trips. You must read and sign it.
What is the OVA?
The Sierra Club Outings Volunteer Agreement. It explains your volunteer relationship to the Sierra Club, and includes legal waivers of your rights. You must read and sign it.
I am getting my certifications at the last moment before a trip. Can I just show them to the Trip Leader?
Yes. However, please send copies of the cards to Ryan or Malcolm right away.