Patroller Duties

Responsibilities

• Patrol a minimum number of hours over a specific patrolling season plus training, e.g., 50 hours minimum from April through October.
• Observe and follow the pre-arranged and agreed upon patrolling schedule. Be where you are supposed to be when you are supposed to be there.
• Wear and maintain the proper uniform for the patrol unit or NMBP group.
• Make sure patrol group equipment is signed out, returned, and if necessary, restocked in working order and in a timely fashion. Patroller is responsible for equipment when in their possession.
• Keep a positive, helpful attitude and represent the NMBP and your local patrol in a professional way.
• Help maintain safe trails by being alert and reporting hazards, obstacles, and remedies as required.
• Respect local ecology and trail conditions.
• Accurately complete appropriate incident record procedures and/or log sheets.
• Interact effectively with trail users, emergency care providers, and land management officials.
• Educate trail users about trail conditions and low impact riding techniques.
• Know how to contact and provide effective feedback to individuals, agencies, and organizations that have jurisdiction in the local area.
• Patrollers: Assist in the care and transportation of injured or ill persons.
• Remember: Law enforcement is NOT a function of the National Mountain Bike Patrol.

Qualifications

• Satisfy all established training requirements established by the National Mountain Bike Patrol and the local land manager to include, but not limited to:

- first aid/emergency care (Patrollers only)
- communication equipment skills
- interpersonal skills
- interagency relations
- trail/environmental issues and impact
- orienteering
- riding skills
- emergency bike repair

• Know and follow all local policies and procedures.
• Know personal limitations on qualifications and ability to provide services.
• Demonstrate adequate mountain bike patrol skills.
• Maintain personal bike to prevent failures on the trail.

Personal Risk Management

• Stay within your physical limits while patrolling or operating within the scope of Trail Ambassador responsibilities.
• Comprehend and differentiate between personal and patrol group responsibility regarding insurance and health coverage.
• Dress appropriately for the weather conditions and be prepared for the unexpected (do not become a casualty).
• Always wear a helmet and other appropriate safety gear.
• If possible, carry extra water and energy food.
• If possible, tap into local law enforcement agencies to get some specialized training on how to confront or approach difficult people without putting oneself in harm’s way.
• Trail ambassadors: You are strongly advised to work with experienced patrollers for the first six months.