Working to prevent drowning and water-related injury

Ontario Roadmap to Reopen

Updated September 17, 2021 Guidance to support implementation of proof of vaccination requirements that take effect Sep. 22. Ontario’s exit from the Roadmap to Reopen is paused until further notice.

NEW - 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.

Explore Bronze - Update Clinic

Explore the revised Bronze medal awards. Join us online for highlights of the new curriculum. Click a date to register: Sep. 20 (7:00-8:30 p.m.), Oct. 20 (7:00-8:30 p.m.), Nov. 24 (7:00-8:30 p.m.).

2021 Water Smart Contest

Thanks to everyone who participated in the Water Smart Contest this summer! Don’t forget to email us your winners or send them by regular mail to our office (attention Lori Groves). Deadline is Sep. 24.

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.

Swimming Instruction: an Essential Service

The Lifesaving Society supports the classification of basic instruction in swimming skills, lifesaving skills for self and others, and CPR skills as an essential service during the ongoing pandemic, and recommends government permit such instruction to protect and maintain public health. Read the position statement.

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.

Guide to Training During COVID-19

Download a free copy of the Lifesaving Society Guide to Training During COVID-19: In-Person Training Safety for Affiliates, Trainers, Instructors, Examiners and Coaches. This guide for Affiliate Members aims to ensure in-person water and classroom training can be delivered safely.

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.

Water Smart Tip Cards

Our Water Smart Tip Cards in English, French and 10 other languages, address essential drowning prevention topics with tips to stay safe. Order now in lifeguarddepot.com.

Multi-language, online boating safety program

STARTboating is designed to teach basic boating and water safety skills.