Working to prevent drowning and water-related injury

Ontario Roadmap to Reopen

Updated Oct. 27, 2021 The Province of Ontario has released its plan to safely reopen Ontario and manage Covid-19 for the long-term. Read the Society's Guidance for Aquatic Facilities.

WSIB first aid certification extension ends Dec. 31, 2021

Official notice is on the WSIB website. If you attended a two-day Lifesaving Society Standard First Aid with CPR-C course, and that certification expired after Mar. 1, 2020, you may recertify by attending a one-day Lifesaving Society SFA recertification by Dec. 31, 2021. Beginning Jan. 1, 2022, you’ll be required to attend a full two-day Standard First Aid with CPR-C to remain current.

If your last first aid course was the Lifesaving Society Standard First Aid with CPR-C Recert then you must attend a full two-day Standard First Aid with CPR-C course. If you’re not sure, check the expiry date on your record in Find a Member.

Ontario Non-Fatal Drowning Report

Did you know that every year in Ontario over 500 people visit an emergency department for non-fatal drowning and nearly 100 people are hospitalized? Read the Lifesaving Society's first ever Ontario Non-Fatal Drowning Report, 2021. View the presentation slideshow. View the recording.

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.

Program Guide

The 2021 edition of the Society's Program Guide is now available. This edition identifies certifications that can be delivered virtually and includes updated policies and definitions; Bronze medals award descriptions; prerequisites (e.g., 15 years old for National Lifeguard and Lifesaving and Swim instructors) and more. Download it for free (on the right) or buy a hard copy here.

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.

Guidance on National Lifeguard (Pool) Recert Planning

The National Lifeguard Recertification (Pool) - Notes for Examiners – Ontario COVID Edition is designed to aid Lifesaving Society National Lifeguard Examiners conduct a National Lifeguard (Pool Option) recertification exam during Covid-19.

The office is open

In accordance with public health measures, the Society’s office is open. Visitors must complete a Covid-19 screening before entering (pickups and drop-offs excluded) and wear a mask at all times.

Curbside pickup / drop-off remain available 9:30 to 4:30.

We thank you for your understanding during this unprecedented period and ask for your patience as we work through the ‘return-to-new-normal.’ We all have a role to play in supressing the spread of COVID-19. An excellent source of authoritative information is this government of Canada website.

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.