Basic swimming ability is a fundamental requirement in any meaningful attempt to eliminate drowning in Canada.
The Lifesaving Society offers training programs from learn-to-swim through advanced lifesaving, lifeguarding and leadership. Contact your local municipal pool, Y, summer camp, school, college or university or check Find a Course.
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In 1894, Arthur Lewis Cochrane, who had emigrated from England, was made the Lifesaving Society's Honorary Representative in Canada. Through Cochrane's efforts with a small group of like-minded citizens, the first Canadian Branch of the Society was established in Ontario in 1908. The formation of the Quebec Branch followed in 1909 and Branches were formed in other provinces soon afterwards.
