Expedition Readiness & Safety Academy
About Us
Preparing You for the World's Harshest Frontiers
At ERSA - Expedition Readiness and Safety Academy, we are dedicated to delivering elite training for individuals and teams operating in remote, unpredictable, and often dangerous environments. Whether you're a polar expedition guide, Arctic scientist, wildlife safety officer, or maritime professional, ERSA equips you with the critical skills needed to operate confidently and safely in extreme conditions.
What We Do
Our flagship program-the Polar Bear Safety & Firearm Handling Course (PBS)-blends academic theory with high-stakes field training to prepare personnel for real-world polar bear encounters and expedition scenarios. Our multi-day certification process includes:
Online Pre-Course Modules
- Firearms Safety Certificate
- Understanding Polar Bears Certificate
Three-Day In-Person Training
- Firearm safety & handling
- Non-lethal deterrent deployment
- Scouting theory & camp logistics
- Emergency response protocols
We also offer customized training solutions tailored to align with your expedition team's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), including full integration with corporate policies.
Why ERSA
What sets ERSA apart is our commitment to realism, structure, and mission-readiness. We train like it matters-because it does. Every course is designed to simulate actual expedition conditions, with a balance of hands-on instruction and tactical decision-making frameworks. Our team understands the stakes and brings professional rigor to every session.
Fully integrated with industry SOPs
Field-proven curriculum
Veteran instructors from law enforcement, military, and expedition backgrounds
Professional-grade firearm safety and range control
Custom branding and training for corporate clients
Mission-Driven. Safety-Focused. Field-Tested.
Our mission is to ensure that no matter where your journey takes you-from the Arctic tundra to remote maritime zones-you are trained, confident, and capable of handling the challenges that lie ahead.
Whether you're safeguarding a cruise vessel, leading an ice camp, or supporting scientific fieldwork, ERSA gives you the skills to protect your team, your mission, and yourself.
The ERSA Difference
Measurable Gains in Skill & Confidence
Based on self-assessments administered to participants before and after completing our training programs.
Each skill category showed dramatic improvement-reflecting both participant growth and ERSA's proven methodology.
Our Training Programs
Our flagship 3-day program provides comprehensive training on polar bear behavior, deterrence strategies, and firearms safety protocols.
- ACTS & PROVE firearm safety principles
- Non-lethal deterrence techniques
- Bear behavior & risk assessment
- PTGA Shooting standard certification
A condensed 1-day recertification program for those who have completed our flagship course, with mandatory online pre-course modules.
- Live firearms handling & qualification
- Non-lethal deterrent deployment practice
- Field simulations & protocol alignment
- PTGA Shooting standard renewal
The nationally mandated training program required to obtain a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) for non-restricted firearms in Canada.
- Firearms safety fundamentals
- Non-restricted firearms types & operation
- Safe practices & legal requirements
- Written & practical testing
The federally mandated course required to apply for a Restricted Possession and Acquisition Licence (RPAL) in Canada.
- Restricted firearms safety & handling
- Legal responsibilities & regulations
- Identification & functionality
- Written & practical testing
Who We Train
Expedition Teams & Guides
Professional guides and expedition leaders operating in polar regions.
Wildlife Researchers & Scientists
Field researchers working in remote wilderness environments.
Remote Workers in Arctic Environments
Personnel stationed at remote outposts and research stations.
Security & Defense Personnel
Security teams responsible for protecting groups in wilderness areas.
Government & Corporate Teams
Official personnel working in or visiting polar regions.
Firearms License Applicants
Individuals seeking PAL or RPAL certification for legal firearms ownership in Canada.
If you work, explore, or operate in remote environments, ERSA training is essential for your safety.
Our Core Values
We train with intent, not convenience.
Every module, drill, and scenario is designed to prepare students for the real-world challenges they may face in remote and high-risk environments. We instill confidence through competence.
Discipline isn't a suggestion - it's a necessity.
From firearm handling to wildlife awareness, safety is rooted in structured discipline and attention to detail. We model and demand precision because lives depend on it.
When the environment changes, so do we.
Whether it's polar terrain, gear failure, or human error, our training sharpens decision-making under pressure and encourages critical thinking in dynamic situations.
True leaders don't just take charge - they take ownership.
We foster a mindset where every individual is accountable for the safety and success of their team. This tenet extends beyond training and into every expedition and mission.
What Our Clients Say
Don't just take our word for it. Here's what industry professionals have to say about our training programs.
"Having attended an array of courses over my nautical career / aviation interests. This was one of the best courses I have attended, exceeding my expectations. All instructors had excellent knowledge and skills. They couldn't do enough for you, and they had a special way of encouraging you to do better no matter your skill level. To the point that I'm now interested in joining the local club to upkeep my skills. Thank you for such a great course, look forward to the refresher!"
Antony Gilbert
Maritime Professional
"I have been an Arctic Expedition Leader in the expedition cruising industry for the last 25 years and have trained a lot of polar bear guards / firearm handlers over that time. The polar bear safety guide course developed by ERSA and delivered to our expedition team has set our team up for success. Building confidence in firearm safety and solid skills gives each guide more confidence to assess a situation and work harder with non-lethal deterrents, leading to a better outcome for the bear and the guide/group."
Aaron Lawton
Arctic Expedition Leader
Ready to Prepare for Your Next Expedition?
From polar bear defense to firearms certification, our comprehensive training programs ensure you're prepared for the challenges ahead.