Working to prevent drowning and water-related injury

Exploring a Hidden Epidemic

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

Ontario Roadmap to Reopen

Updated July 16, 2021 Step 3 and after Step 3 of the Roadmap to Reopen for Aquatic Facilities are outlined here. The Ontario government's Roadmap to Reopen replaces the previous colour-coded system.

Explore Bronze - Update Clinic

Explore the revised Bronze medal awards. Join us online for highlights of the new curriculum. Click a date to register: August 17 (7:00-8:30 p.m.), September 20 (7:00-8:30 p.m.).

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.

New 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.

New 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.

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 but no visitors

In accordance with recent public health measures for Toronto announced by the province, the Society’s office, while functioning, is closed to visitors. We are responding to voicemail and email messages: leave a message at 416.490.8844 or email experts@lifeguarding.com

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.

New - 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.

Guide to Reopening after COVID-19

Updated November 2020 - Download a free copy of the Lifesaving Society’s Guide to Reopening Pools and Waterfronts after COVID-19 closure, designed to help owners, operators and staff of aquatic facilities to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission when facilities reopen.

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.

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.

Uniforms: designed by lifeguards, for lifeguards