Working to prevent drowning and water-related injury

Ontario transition to the updated National Lifeguard program

The Lifesaving Society has updated the National Lifeguard program following a review to ensure its curriculum and performance standards remain current, relevant and grounded in the competencies required by lifeguards. Read about the key changes.

Swim Transition

The official Swim Transition Instructor Clinic approved by the Lifesaving Society Canada and endorsed by the Canadian Red Cross is online now at e-lifesaving.ca.

Red Cross is encouraging its water safety training partners to transition to the swim and lifeguarding programs of the Lifesaving Society Canada. Learn more.

Canadian Red Cross members can now transfer their certification to the Lifesaving Society electronically via e-lifesaving.ca/transition.

Water Smart Award

Temporary Shortages

Like all Canadian publishers and most other paper users, the Lifesaving Society has been affected by a shortage of paper caused by supply chain issues. This affects inventories, which unfortunately leads to temporary shortages.

We are actively working with our printers and suppliers to overcome this problem and expect to resolve the issues over the coming weeks. We will update this notice regularly as conditions change. Our apologies for the inconvenience this causes.

Ontario Non-Fatal Drowning Report

For every fatal drowning in Ontario, there are nearly four non-fatal drownings that are serious enough to require an emergency department visit every year. Learn more in the 2022 edition of the Ontario Non-Fatal Drowning Report.

Ontario Roadmap to Reopen

Updated June 11, 2022 - Living with and managing Covid-19 in Ontario. Read the Society's Guidance for Aquatic Facilities.

2020-21 National Preliminary Drowning Report

National drowning data is summarized in the 2020-21 National Preliminary Drowning Report, a bird’s-eye view based on interim data derived from internet and media sources.

Online and blended learning

Read the Lifesaving Society’s guide for affiliates and leadership personnel regarding the delivery of Society courses in online or blended learning formats.

Exploring a Hidden Epidemic

Study reveals a steep upward trend for drownings among adults 65+ in Canada. Read the release here.

United Nations Adopts Historic Resolution on Drowning Prevention

The first UN Resolution on Drowning Prevention was approved by the General Assembly on April 28, 2021. Canada was one of 79 Member States that co-sponsored the Resolution. It is a significant milestone: this Resolution will focus attention and action on this highly preventable public health challenge, and increase international awareness and action to reduce drowning. Read the Canadian announcement.

Ontario Inflatable Waterpark Safety Standards

This guide will assist inflatable waterpark owners and operators in providing a safe aquatic environment for their patrons; it explains the Society’s position on inflatable waterpark issues and informs owners and operators about safety expectations as a preventive measure. Add it to your aquatic reference library today.

Explore Bronze

The Lifesaving Society has officially released the revised Bronze medal awards! Discover What’s new for Affiliates / What’s new for Instructors / What’s new for Recertifying Bronze Cross. Our Teaching/Resources page has more information about the newest support materials. Get started by taking the Explore Bronze online tutorial.

Policy Changes (as of July 1, 2020)

The Lifesaving Society Canada is adopting 15 years as the minimum age prerequisite for certification as a Swim Instructor, Lifesaving Instructor, or National Lifeguard. The Society is also broadening access to its courses by accepting, for prerequisite purposes, EFA and SFA certifications provided by training agencies approved by the Ontario government. See details.

EFA and SFA certifications valid for 3 years

Lifesaving Society Emergency and Standard First Aid certifications are valid for three years (36 months) from the date of certification. In the interests of reducing confusion among employers and harmonizing the Society's currency period with Ontario government regulations, CSA recommendations and the general practice among other workplace first aid providers, the Lifesaving Society Ontario has adopted a three-year period for the validity of its workplace EFA and SFA certifications only. Read the announcement.