Matsu replies that he thinks it's worth doing, and that it's not really difficult. All you need is Level 1 ski certification and to have done a Red Cross first aid course. Matsu emphasizes that originally Niseko patrollers started out as volunteers, and although this turned into a paid position about 16 years ago, the four companies that run the resorts haven't introduced any real qualification requirements. It is my turn to take a big swig of beer. It really depends on the person - some are more interested in first aid and are quite skilled, others enjoy skiing backcountry and have some avalanche experience.
Nothing is compulsory.
I look around at the collection of faces and get the impression that depending on where and when someone gets into trouble, the level of response might be considerably different. We do have to deal with a large number and variety of accidents every year, so I guess we get a fair amount of practice. It would be better though if there were regular courses everyone could attend during the season. It appears budget, as well as the logistics of trying to find time to run a seminar mid-season are the main problems. We do financially assist those who want to go and study more, but with resort work commitments, patrollers mostly have to do the courses out of season.