The Fishermen First Aid and Safety Training (FFAST) course takes 16 hours and includes basic CPR. FFAST has presentations, hands-on skill development, and scenarios in which knowledge and skills are put together to respond to a simulated accident or illness.

The course focuses on preparing fishermen to respond to common fishery injuries and illnesses ranging from the seasickness or chapped hands to life-threatening injuries such as crush injuries or hypothermia. Topics are specific to fishing situations, such as the challenges of safely moving patients onboard rolling vessels in tight quarters. To pass the course, students must demonstrate basic skill and scenario proficiency and pass a final exam with a minimum score of 70 percent.