Why is AVERT now being called AVIRT?
The change from AVERT (Active Violence Emergency Response Training) to AVIRT (Active Violence Immediate Response Training) comes from the key principle of Immediate Response. “In the case of severe, life-threatening bleeding, applying bleeding control measures right away can make a difference in the person’s chance of survival.” This inspires one big change to our active violence training. AVERT is becoming AVIRT to better emphasize the importance of acting quickly during active violence and as an immediate responder to control life-threatening bleeding.
What is the reason for the update?
It had also been 5 years since this program was released, we took input from current AVERT TCs and Instructors and implemented some of the changes/additions that they wanted to see. It was also time to update some key teachings as well as updated the name.
When does the update need to be completed by?
The course must be completed, and the fee must be paid prior to the updated course materials being released on 8/27/2025 or the instructor will not have access to any AVIRT materials and will not be able to teach until the update is completed.
What is a significant change in AVIRT?
In AVERT, students were told to use alternating hands when packing gauze. It is now taught that the fingertips of one hand maintains constant pressure while the other hand pushes gauze into the wound until no more goes in, without alternating hands.
What if you are a new AVERT instructor?
If you became an Authorized Instructor on or after January 1, 2025, you still need to complete the Instructor Update Course, but you will NOT be charged the $100 Materials Fee for the new course, instructor and student materials. All Instructor authorization expiration dates will remain the same, regardless of the date the Instructor Update Course is taken.
What about if I just paid my reauthorization fee? Will I still need to pay the $100 materials fee (update fee)?
Yes, you will still be required to pay the $100 materials fee even if you have recently reauthorized. These fees are different, and both fees will be required this year unless you became an AVERT instructor on or after 1/1/2025.