LIFESAVING SOCIETY AQUATIC PROGRAMMER S GUIDE

LIFESAVING SOCIETY AQUATIC PROGRAMMER S GUIDE

AQUATIC PROGRAMMER S GUIDE Published by the Lifesaving Society 2224 Smith Street Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, S4P 2P4 Phone (306) 780-9255; Fax (306) 780-9498 Email: lifesaving @sasktel.net; Website: www.lifesavingsociety.sk.ca Revised Edition April 2008 Copyright 2007 by The Royal Life Saving Society Canada. Reproduction, by any means, of materials contained in this book is prohibited unless authorized by the publisher. Direct inquires can be made to the Lifesaving Society office. The Lifesaving Society is Canada s lifeguarding experts. The Society is a national charitable organization working to prevent drowning and water-related injuries through lifeguard, lifesaving, and swimming training, competitive lifesaving, safety management standards and services, and Water Smart public education. The Society is an independent, charitable organization educating Canadian lifesavers since the first Lifesaving Society Bronze Medallion was earned in 1896. Lifesaving Society, Swim for Life, Swim to Survive, and Water Smart are registered trademarks of the Royal Life Saving Society Canada. Trademarks other than those owned by the Lifesaving Society used in this document belong to their registered owners

Canada s Lifeguarding Experts The Lifesaving Society, Canada s lifeguarding expert, works to prevent drowning and water related injury through its training programs, Water Smart public education and aquatic safety management services. Teaching Canadians to save themselves and others The Society certifies 500,000 Canadians annually in swimming, lifesaving, lifeguarding and leadership training programs. The Swim for Life Program, Junior Lifeguard Club, the Canadian Swim Patrol program, the Bronze medal awards and Lifesaving First Aid offer young people and adults a challenging progression in swimming and lifesaving training. Our National Lifeguard certification is the standard for professional lifeguards in Canada. Making Canadians Water Smart Our annual drowning research focuses our Water Smart drowning prevention efforts on those people most at risk like men fishing in small boats or on those who can make a significant difference, such as parents of young children. Setting the standard The Lifesaving Society establishes aquatic safety standards and consults on aquatic safety issues for the aquatic industry and governments. With all the experience in the world The Lifesaving Society is a leader and partner in the delivery of water safety education in Canada and around the world. The Society represents Canada in the International Life Saving Federation and the Royal Life Saving Society. Our international connections mean the Lifesaving Society brings Canadians the best the world has to offer. The Lifesaving Society The Lifesaving Society is a national volunteer organization and registered charity composed of tens of thousands of individual members and thousands of affiliated swimming pools, waterfronts and schools. Established in England (1891) as The Swimmers Life Saving Society, we became The Royal Life Saving Society in 1904. Today, we re known to Canadians simply as the Lifesaving Society. The Royal Life Saving Society Canada is the sole owner of the National Sport Organization for competitive lifesaving in Canada through its membership in the International Life Saving Federation. The Provincial Branches of the Lifesaving Society are the owners of the Provincial Sport Organizations for competitive lifesaving in each province and territory through their membership in the Royal Life Saving Society Canada.

Foreword This guide is designed to aid aquatic programmers in the administration of the Lifesaving Society programs. It also provides information about our organization including the mission and mandate.

The Lifesaving Society General Information Definitions Unless the context otherwise requires: "Society" shall mean the LIFESAVING SOCIETY. "National" shall mean the LIFESAVING SOCIETY Canada. "Branch" shall mean the Saskatchewan Branch of the LIFESAVING SOCIETY Canada. "Directors" shall mean the Board of Directors of the Saskatchewan Branch. Member shall mean Active Members officers and members of the Board of Directors, members of the Branch committees, examiners and instructors holding current qualifications, and all other persons elected to active membership by the Directors. Affiliate shall mean registered affiliates of the Lifesaving Society. (See Appendix for Affiliate categories.) Instructor shall mean an individual certified to instruct Lifesaving Society programs. Examiner shall mean an individual certified to evaluate Lifesaving Society programs. Mentor shall mean an approved Lifesaving Society instructor/examiner with significant teaching/evaluating experience that acts as a teacher/advisor to new instructors/apprentice examiners. The Saskatchewan Branch The Saskatchewan Branch of the Lifesaving Society was incorporated in 1964. The Branch Office is operated out of Regina, SK. The Branch has a volunteer Board of Directors and operates under the Carver Policy Governance Model. Directors are elected for two-year terms each March at the Annual General Meeting. Directors work closely with the moral owners and members of the Society to develop policies and direction for the Saskatchewan Branch. A Chief Executive Officer and staff are employed by the Branch. Additional summer and contract staff are also hired as required. A team of Regional Consultants volunteer across the province, serving as official Society representatives. They help to coordinate Lifesaving Society activities and provide program support to Lifesaving Society affiliates. Over 11,000 Saskatchewan people are trained and certified annually in the awards of the Canadian Lifesaving Program. In addition, the Society reaches thousands of residents of the province with year-round and seasonal Water Smart public education messages.

Saskatchewan Branch Constitution: For a copy of the Branch s Constitution, please contact the office at 780-9255. Board of Directors End Statement, Goals & Objectives: To reduce the number of aquatic incidents in Saskatchewan. ** Please note the term incidents is used to reference unintentional injury or death. Goals Public Education 1. To increase the profile of the LIFESAVING SOCIETY and its programs 2. To increase the individual's awareness of the responsibility that they assume for themselves and others when working or playing in, on, or near water 3. To promote a positive image of lifeguards throughout Saskatchewan 4. To develop and promote the volunteers of the LIFESAVING SOCIETY Saskatchewan Branch Program 1. To determine current needs in water rescue, resuscitation, lifeguarding and aquatic risk management 2. To provide education in response to current needs in water rescue, resuscitation, lifeguarding and aquatic risk management 3. To provide leadership training and development for life saving and lifeguarding programs, and activities 4. To monitor and evaluate the Society's programs 5. To provide material resources designed to enhance training and education Administration 1. To operate the LIFESAVING SOCIETY Saskatchewan Branch in an effective and efficient manner 2. To secure the financial resources necessary to move towards the ends of the LIFESAVING SOCIETY Saskatchewan Branch 3. To develop and maintain the Provincial office staff that supports the work of the LIFESAVING SOCIETY Saskatchewan Branch Annual Events Annual General Meeting: This is a meeting of the Board of Directors, all voting members and interested persons. The election of members to vacant Board positions is held at this time. In addition, the Board presents the business history of the past year and the

audited financial statement which the membership votes to approve. The meeting is held in conjunction with the Provincial Water Safety Conference. Provincial Water Safety Conference: All aquatic personnel including lifeguards and instructors, administrators, Recreation Directors and related aquatic organizations and recreation groups are invited to attend. Professional development workshops and networking opportunities are available. **Any community wishing to host this conference should submit a bid to the Branch office. Provincial Lifeguard/Lifesaving Competition: This annual competition is an opportunity for lifeguards and lifesavers to showcase their water rescue, first aid and fitness skills as well as learn and share skills and methods. Vice-Regal Investiture Ceremony: This is a special ceremony which recognizes the work of individuals who have made significant volunteer contributions to the Society and its mission. It also honours individuals who have attempted a rescue (successful or unsuccessful) in an aquatic setting. The ceremony is traditionally held at Government House in Regina and is hosted by the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan. National Drowning Prevention Week: This is the flagship public education campaign of the Lifesaving Society. It runs the third week of July each year across Canada. Affiliates and volunteers from across Saskatchewan assist the Branch in coordinating Water Smart activities and displays at swimming pools, waterfront and non-aquatic locations. Drowning prevention messages and education are presented and made available to the public. The Branch Office makes a Drowning Prevention Week Event Kit available to all affiliates and volunteers wishing to participate in the campaign.

Administration Branch Office Address: 2224 Smith Street Regina, SK S4P 2P4 Telephone: (306) 780-9255 Fax: (306) 780-9498 Email: lifesaving@sasktel.net Website: www.lifesavingsociety.sk.ca Hours of operation: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday (closed from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.) These hours may change periodically. Branch Office Services The following services are available to registered affiliates from the Saskatchewan Branch. Please refer to a current Branch Order Form for prices. Program Materials and Supplies: Promotional items such as pamphlets, posters are available as well as award test sheets and recertification credit cards. Merchandise: The Branch office stocks an inventory of literature, clothing items, teaching aids, whistles, ACTAR 911 manikins, badges, medals and other merchandise for resale. Safety Equipment is also available upon request. All orders should be placed with the Saskatchewan Branch office. Award Search: Lost certification cards can be replaced and qualifications can be verified. Please allow at least two weeks for processing. Only under special circumstances will the Branch verify qualifications that have been achieved prior to 1988. This service is provided for a nominal fee. Leadership Resource Library: Various books and videos ( Be Your Own Hero, Within Arms Reach, Sudden Impact ) can be borrowed from the Branch office. Contact the Branch office for a current list. Promotional Items: For a minimal handling charge, the Branch office will supply the following promotional items: Eels & Ladders Board Game Water Smart banners LIFESAVING SOCIETY display unit School Presentation Box Thin Ice Puppet Show Rental Items: Actar 911

Automated Defibrillator Trainers Defibrillator Mannequins Registration of Affiliates All affiliates must register each year by completing the registration form sent by the Branch office. This will deem the affiliate current. Indoor Affiliates register by January 30th Summer Affiliates register by June 30th Membership Database The Lifesaving Society Branch Office inputs all candidates award certifications and personal information including name, address, phone number and date of birth into a secure database. This information is used for the following: to track a candidate s award history, for member communication, and certification checks by employers. The database is also used for statistic collection and other administrative purposes. The following information can be produced upon request by Affiliates, Instructors and Examiners: Award statistics (both pass and fail) for any given period by either an affiliate or an Instructor /Examiner Verification of staff and member qualifications (verbal confirmation only) **Personal addresses, date of birth and phone numbers are not distributed to third parties except with consent by the individual. **Lifesaving Society Examiners, Mentors and Instructor Trainers phone numbers will be distributed to Affiliates for the purpose of Lifesaving Society program operation. Ordering and Purchasing Affiliates may order materials and equipment by faxing, phoning or mailing in the request. Order forms are sent out yearly in the affiliate information package and can also be requested from the Branch Office. Affiliates may charge orders on a credit account and be invoiced. The following should be noted: o Affiliate status must be current. o Invoices are mailed separate from orders and are completed in duplicate. One copy should accompany payment. o A statement of accounts is mailed at the end of each month (except

for January & February due to financial audit). o No interest is charged on overdue accounts but once items exceed 60 days, invoicing and ordering privileges are withdrawn until the account is paid. o All accounts must be cleared in full once per year prior to registering for the next year. Items returned must be accompanied with a copy of the original invoice. Credit for items will be applied to the account - no cheques will be issued. Taxes and shipping charges will be applied. What to order Each program or award has different material (badges, report cards, crests and medallions, etc.) and book/manual requirements. Please see the Programs, Awards and Certifications section for the specific materials and books required at each level. Paperwork required from Affiliates to Branch Office 1. Yearly Affiliate Agreement and Registration Form maintains current affiliate status 2. Test Sheets for all programs Test Sheets Test sheets (sometimes called exam sheets) are used by instructors and examiners to record teaching and evaluation results and to record candidates name, address, birth date and phone number. Test sheets must be sent into the Branch Office for all Lifesaving Society programs. Upon receiving the test sheet from the Affiliate, the information on the test sheet is inputted into the Membership Database. It is important that this data entry takes place to ensure the official award certification of the candidates. Test sheets are available on the website both the affiliate and member log-in sections. Test sheets are also available from the Branch office upon request. Each award level is presented on a different test sheet. Test sheets can be used as legal evidence and should be treated as such. Test sheets should be filled out in legible printing and and in full by the instructor. The examiner will fill in the result section and sign the test sheet upon final evaluation of the candidates. The original copy of the test sheet must be submitted to the Branch Office within two weeks of the exam. A second copy of the test sheet should be

retained by the Affiliate for record keeping. (If a photocopier is not available, the instructor/examiner will have to fill in and sign another test sheet.) Incomplete and/or illegible test sheets will be returned to the affiliate. The Branch requires that birthdays and addresses, including the postal code and email address, be completed on the test sheet when they are returned to the Branch office. The only exceptions are for test sheets used in the Swim Patrol and SWIM programs. Statistics sheets for these two programs are to be completed and sent to the Branch instead of Test Sheets at the duration of an instructional session or season. These sheets are available from the Branch Office. Affiliates will be invoiced for exam fees of all candidates on test sheet. Issuing Awards to Candidates: Affiliates have two options for issuing awards to candidates: 1. Branch Office will mail out awards to the candidates. (Please allow 3 6 weeks for award processing.) 2. Affiliate may administer Instant Awards (Traditional Affiliates only; some exceptions apply). Affiliate can pre-purchase the awards and present to the candidates on the day of the exam or mail to the candidates from the Affiliate s address. Instant Awards System This system allows affiliates to issue awards themselves, which decreases the waiting period for candidates to receive their awards. The Affiliate pre-purchases the awards and issues the awards as required. This system is mandatory for the Swim Patrol Program, SWIM Program, and Lifesaving Fitness. The Instant Award System is optional for Traditional Affiliates which offer the Bronze level awards. Award bars and recertification are only issued from the Branch and may not be done as instant awards. Affiliates not wishing to use the instant award option are charged an additional administration fee. Criteria for issuing instant awards registered affiliates in good standing only

permanent address required an employee or volunteer who will be responsible and supervise the system in the facility the affiliate must guarantee the security of the awards, especially the Bronze Cross award, which is accepted as legal a lifeguard standard in Saskatchewan Procedure Affiliate establishes a stock of award material (wallet cards, medals) further awards are ordered as needed the Branch Office sends the awards to the affiliate with an invoice for the amount of exam fees corresponding to the number of awards ordered. The affiliate must pay the invoice within 30 days completed test sheets are returned to the Branch Office with the appropriate box checked off on the test sheet to indicate "awards issued by affiliate" the affiliate is invoiced for the exam fees of unsuccessful candidates

Programs, Awards & Certifications Under each award is an explanation of required prerequisites, books, instructor, evaluation and recognition material. With the exception of the SWIM Program and the SWIM Patrol Program, each award remains current for two years. Please refer to Appendix - How to Recertify your awards Learn to Swim Program SWIM The Society s Swim Program is a complete learn-to-swim program from Parent & Tot through to Adult levels. The focus is on learning to swim. Program content is stroke and skill driven: entries and exits; surface support; underwater skills; survival skills; movement skills; and Water Smart education. Parent & Tot Program, 5 Level Preschool Program, 6 Level School-age Program, 3 Level Adult Program. The content focus is self-rescue. An additional three levels from the Swim Patrol Program follow that begin to focus on rescue of others Rookie, Ranger and Star Patrol. SWIM and Swim Patrol lead into Bronze Star, Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross. **Content is designed to be taught in the water for parent & Tot, Preschool and Levels 1 6. (no on-deck teaching) Award Recognition: refer to SWIM Affiliate program disc. Water Rescue Awards Swim Patrol Swim Patrol is a three level modular (Rookie Patrol, Ranger Patrol, Star Patrol) pre-bronze award progression that delivers work hard/play hard training for skilled swimmers 8-12 years of age. Swimmers can start at any level. Swim Patrol fits into standard programming blocks (i.e. 10-12 lessons of approximately 45-60 minutes for a class of 10 participants) no classroom time is required. Swim Patrol can be programmed to be the next step after Swimmer 6 in the SWIM Program, as part of Junior Lifeguard Club, as part of a lifesaving camp, as a module for Boy Scouts or Girl Guides, and many other ways.

Rookie Patrol Prerequisites: Must be 8-12 years of age. Ability is the only other prerequisite Evaluation: Evaluated by the Lifesaving Instructor Award Recognition: wall chart and seals or progress card and crest Taught by: Lifesaving Instructor Next Step: Ranger Patrol Ranger Patrol Prerequisites: Must be 8-12 years of age. Ability is the only other prerequisite Evaluation: Evaluated by the Lifesaving Instructor Award Recognition: wall chart and seals or progress card and crest Taught by: Lifesaving Instructor Next Step: Star Patrol Star Patrol Prerequisites: Must be 8-12 years of age. Ability is the only other prerequisite Evaluation: Evaluated by the Lifesaving Instructor Award Recognition: wall chart and seals or progress card and crest Taught by: Lifesaving Instructor Next Step: Bronze Star or Bronze Medallion Bronze Star (also includes CPR A) is the beginning of the Bronze progression and is an excellent preparation for success in Bronze Medallion. In Bronze Star, participants develop problem-solving and decision making skills as individuals and in partners. They learn Adult Resuscitation Skills and develop WaterSmart confidence and the lifesaving skills needed to be their own personal lifeguard. Prerequisites: None Evaluation: Evaluated by the Lifesaving Instructor Award Recognition: wallet card and medal Taught by: Lifesaving Instructor Candidate Books: Canadian Lifesaving Manual and (CPR Manual optional) Next Step: Bronze Medallion

Bronze Medallion (also includes Emergency First Aid & CPR B) - teaches an understanding of the lifesaving principles embodied in the four components of water rescue education -- judgement, knowledge, skill and fitness. Rescuers learn both tows and carries and release methods in preparation for challenging rescues of increased risk. Lifesavers learn to respond to increasingly complex situations involving conscious and unconscious victims with an obstructed airway. Lifesavers develop stroke efficiency and endurance in a timed swim. Prerequisites: Minimum age -- 13 years. Recommend prior training in Bronze Star. If the candidate has completed the Bronze Star award the age requirement is waived Evaluation: Examiner evaluated. This is a pass or fail award. Award Recognition: wallet card and medal Taught by: Lifesaving Instructor Examiner Qualifications: Bronze Medallion Examiner appointment or higher Candidate Books: Canadian Lifesaving Manual and (CPR Manual optional) Next step: Bronze Cross Bronze Cross (also includes CPR C) is designed for lifesavers who want the challenge of more advanced training including an introduction to safe supervision in aquatic facilities. Bronze Cross teaches the difference between lifesaving and lifeguarding, the principles of emergency procedures, and teamwork. Lifesavers learn how to rescue a spinal-injured victim and a pulseless victim. Bronze Cross is the prerequisite award for all advanced training programs in lifesaving, lifeguarding and leadership. Prerequisites: Bronze Medallion Evaluation: Examiner evaluated. This is a pass or fail award. Award Recognition: wallet card and medal Taught by: Lifesaving Instructor Examiner Qualifications: Bronze Cross Examiner appointment Candidate Books: Canadian Lifesaving Manual and (CPR Manual optional)

Next step: AEC, NLS or Distinction Distinction encourages a maturity of response to demanding aquatic emergency situations and is designed to develop advanced water rescue skill and knowledge and an understanding of the principles of fitness training. Distinction challenges include implications of assuming responsibility in an emergency, how to deal with two victims at once, and rescue of a non-breathing spinal-injured victim. Inherent in the name of the award, lifesavers must perform every item with distinction. Prerequisites: Bronze Cross Evaluation: Examiner evaluated. This is a pass or fail award. Award Recognition: wallet card and crest Taught by: Lifesaving Instructor Examiner Qualifications: Distinction examiner appointment Candidate Books: Canadian Lifesaving Manual, (CPR Manual optional) Next step: NLS or Diploma Diploma is the highest award of the Society, designed for those seeking a challenging opportunity to demonstrate exceptional lifesaving ability and leadership. The Diploma Award encourages excellence in practical ability and theoretical knowledge either by the development of superior aquatic skills (Part A1) or through the completion of a major project or assignment (Part A2). Prerequisites: One of: Distinction, NLS or Lifesaving Instructor Evaluation: All items are evaluated by an appointed Branch representative Taught by: Lifesaving Instructor Examiner Qualifications: Branch appointed examiner Candidate Books: Canadian Lifesaving Manual and (CPR Manual optional) Boat Rescue provides lifesaving knowledge and rescue ability for those engaged in small craft activities. Boat Rescue is designed for those who are already skilled in handling their craft. Training emphasizes self-rescue techniques, recognition of emergencies, factors in rescue craft performance and proper emergency response procedures. Since boat rescue techniques vary considerably with the type of craft and the wind and weather conditions, the requirements of the award specify the type of victim, rather than the method of rescue. Prerequisites: Basic swimming and craft-handling ability is required. Evaluation: All items are evaluated in open water conditions by the LIFESAVING SOCIETY Boat Rescue Instructor/Examiner. Award Recognition: wallet card and crest Taught by: Boat Rescue Instructor Examiner Qualifications: Boat Rescue Examiner. Lifesaving Fitness teaches the importance of physical fitness in lifesaving. The award is designed for participants of both sexes who learn how to measure,

monitor, and maintain personal physical fitness for lifesaving emergencies. Prerequisites: Medical approval is required if over 30 years old. Evaluation: Evaluated by the Lifesaving Instructor Award Recognition: wallet card and crest Taught by: Lifesaving Instructor Boat Operator Accredited Training (BOAT ) Awards (Pleasure Craft Operator Training) BOAT is a course designed to teach boat operators on water safety and the rules and regulations of responsible recreational boating. There is no need for recertification after successful completion of this course. Prerequisites: Minimum age is 8 years old Evaluation: The exam is evaluated by either a BOAT Program Instructor or Proctor Instructor Qualifications: BOAT Instructor Instructor Books: BOAT Study Guide Instructor Equipment: BOAT materials, Instructor Overheads, Instructor Buoys, Instructor Guide, and BOAT Box Examiner Qualifications: Must be a Lifesaving Examiner, BOAT Instructor, or designated proctor to proctor exams Candidate Books: BOAT Study Guide Candidate Equipment: none Next Step: BOAT Rescue or BOAT Instructor BOAT Instructor is designed to give instructors an understanding of how to deliver the Boat Operator Accredited Training program. This Course will include teaching information and tips for the rules and regulations of responsible recreational boating, information on planning your BOAT course, understanding evaluation standards and the administration system for the BOAT program. Prerequisites: Current Lifesaving Instructor and hold a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (exemptions may be granted by the Lifesaving Society) Instructor Qualifications: BOAT Instructor Trainer (Branch appointment) Books required by Instructor: BOAT Study Guide, BOAT Instructor Manual Equipment required by Instructor: BOAT materials, Instructor Overheads, Instructor Buoys, Instructor Guide and BOAT Box Examiner Qualifications: No examiner required Candidate Books: BOAT Study Guide, BOAT Instructor Manual Candidate Equipment: none Next step: not applicable

Resuscitation & First Aid Awards Aquatic Emergency Care (AEC) (includes CPR C) Aquatic Emergency Care provides comprehensive training covering all aspects of first aid and CPR as well as skills specific to emergencies in an aquatic setting. This Standard First Aid course is recommended for lifeguards, aquatic instructors, lifesavers and other individuals who may need to respond to a first aid emergency in an aquatic setting. This award is recognized by Saskatchewan Public Health as a standard first aid course for lifeguards. The primary target group for the AEC award consists of persons in the aquatic environment including cashiers, lifeguards, instructors, park attendants, and aquatic maintenance staff. However, it is also suitable for backyard pool owners, cottage owners, etc. Prerequisites: None. Evaluation: Examiner evaluated. This is a pass or fail award. Taught by: AEC Instructor Examiner Qualifications: AEC examiner Candidate Books: The Canadian Lifesaving Manual and (CPR Manual optional) Next step: Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross or NLS Lifesaving Standard First Aid (includes CPR C) The Lifesaving Standard First Aid course provides comprehensive training covering all aspects of first aid and CPR. This course is Occupational Health and Safety approved in Saskatchewan and in Canada. Prerequisites: none Evaluation: Evaluated by Lifesaving First Aid Examiner or AEC Examiner Taught by: Lifesaving First Aid Instructor or AEC Instructor Candidate Books: Canadian First Aid Manual, (cardstock CPR Manual optional) Lifesaving Emergency First Aid ( includes CPR A) The Lifesaving Emergency First Aid course teaches a general knowledge of first aid principles and the emergency treatment of injuries. Prerequisites: none Evaluation: Evaluated by the Lifesaving First Aid Instructor or AEC Instructor Taught by: Lifesaving First Aid Instructor or AEC Instructor

Candidate Books: Canadian First Aid Manual, (cardstock CPR manual optional) CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) CPR A (Adult) teaches how to recognize circulatory emergencies and perform CPR and choking procedures for adults. CPR B (Adult, Child and Infant) teaches parents, grandparents, babysitters or child care workers how to recognize circulatory emergencies and perform onerescuer CPR and choking procedures for adults, children and infants. CPR C (Adult, Child and Infant) teaches lifeguards, first aiders and first responders how to recognize circulatory emergencies and perform one-rescuer and two-rescuer CPR and choking procedures for adults, children and infants. Prerequisites: none Evaluation: Evaluated by the Lifesaving Instructor, Lifesaving First Aid Instructor or AEC Instructor. Taught by: Lifesaving Instructor or Lifesaving First Aid Instructor or Aquatic Emergency Care Instructor Candidate Books: Cardstock CPR manual AED (Automated External Defibrillation) Prerequisites: CPR A, B, or C Evaluation: Evaluated by the Lifesaving AED Instructor Taught by: Lifesaving AED Instructor Candidate Books: Cardstock AED Manual National Lifeguard Service National Lifeguard Service (NLS) builds on the fundamental skills, knowledge and values taught in the lifesaving awards of the Lifesaving Society to develop the practical skills and knowledge required by lifeguards. Recognized as the standard measurement of lifeguard performance in Canada, NLS Award education is designed to develop a sound understanding of lifeguarding principles, good judgement and a mature and responsible attitude toward the role of the lifeguard. The NLS lifeguard's primary role is the prevention of emergency situations and where this fails, the timely and effective resolution of emergencies. The NLS program is designed to prepare lifeguards to fulfill this role as professional facilitators of safe, enjoyable aquatics. The NLS course cannot in theory or practice prepare candidates for every situation that might be encountered by NLS guards working in Canadian aquatic environments and facilities. NLS training is designed to develop the basic

lifeguarding skills, principles and decision-making processes, which will assist the lifeguard in evaluating and adapting to different aquatic facilities and emergencies. The NLS course consists of a core course dealing with lifeguarding principles and techniques, together with environment-specific items leading to certification in one of the NLS options: Pool, Waterfront, Surf, or Waterpark. Prerequisites: A minimum age of 16 years old, Bronze Cross and current AEC or Standard First Aid. Evaluation: Examiner evaluated. This is a pass or fail award. Taught by: NLS Instructor Examiner Qualifications: NLS Examiner. Candidate Books: Canadian Lifesaving Manual, Alert Manual, and NLS Award Guide. Expiry Date: Exactly 2 years from the date of certification. Leadership **All new instructors at any level (excluding BOAT) must follow the Mentorship System. See Appendix for the Mentorship System description. Lifesaving Instructor The Lifesaving Instructor course is a 40 44 hour course. This course includes SWIM Instructor certification as well as the Exam Standards Clinic. Candidates learn to teach learn-to-swim levels (Parent & Tot, Preschool, School-age and Adult levels) and all lifesaving awards which include the Swim Patrol levels, Bronze Star, Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross and more. The Exam Standards Clinic provides an avenue for the candidates to become examiners for Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross. Candidates also learn to teach emergency first aid and CPR A, B & C which are integrated into the Bronze Family awards. ***Lifesaving Instructors may also teach stand-alone CPR A, B, & C. Prerequisites: 16 years of age by the date of the course and current Bronze Cross award Taught by: Instructor Trainer Evaluation: Evaluated by the Instructor Trainer. This is a pass or fail award. Candidate Books: Canadian Lifesaving Manual and the Lifesaving Instructor Manual(includes binder with Swim Patrol Award Guide, Bronze Medal Award Guide, SWIM Award Guides (2) Instructor Notes and CPR cardstock manual). Advanced Instructor provides additional training for instructors who wish to teach the more advanced awards of the Canadian Lifesaving Program, including NLS and AEC.

Prerequisites: Current Lifesaving Instructor Certification Taught by: Instructor Trainer or can be done through take-home workbook Evaluation: Evaluated by Instructor Trainer or Provincial Trainer Candidate Books: Candidate Package, the Canadian Lifesaving Manual, Instructor Notes, Bronze Medal Award Guide, Policy and Procedure Manual, CPR Student Manual, and Swim Patrol Award Guide Next step: NLS or AEC Instructor Course *No recertification is required for this award* NLS Instructor: After successful participation in the NLS Instructor Course, NLS Instructors are certified to teach the NLS Award. The NLS Instructor must do two mandatory mentorships on his/her first two courses with an approved Mentor. Prerequisites: Current NLS Award (any option), Current Lifesaving Instructor Certification, and Advanced Instructor Certification Taught by: National Lifeguard Service Instructor Trainer Evaluation: Evaluated by the NLS Instructor Trainer. This is a pass or fail award. Candidate Books: NLS Award Guide, Alert Manual, Canadian Lifesaving Manual, Notes for Instructor Trainers, Instructor Notes, and Policy Manual AEC Instructor: After successful participation in the AEC Instructor Course, AEC Instructors are certified to teach the AEC Award. The AEC Instructor must do two mandatory mentorships on his/her first two courses with an approved Mentor. Prerequisites: Current AEC Award, Current Lifesaving Instructor Certification, and Advanced Instructor Certification Taught by: AEC Instructor Trainer Evaluation: Evaluated by the AEC Instructor Trainer. This is a pass or fail award. Candidate Books: The Canadian Lifesaving Manual, Alert Manual, Instructor Notes, AEC Award Guide Lifesaving CPR Instructor: Lifesaving CPR instructors are trained to teach and evaluate the Lifesaving CPR program levels A, B and C. This certification is included in Lifesaving Instructor Course. Prerequisites: Minimum 16 years old and current Bronze Cross or higher Taught by: Lifesaving First Aid Instructor Trainer Evaluation: Evaluated by Lifesaving First Aid Instructor Trainer. This is a pass or fail award. Candidate Books: Lifesaving CPR Instructor Package Lifesaving First Aid Instructor: Lifesaving First Aid Instructors are trained to teach and evaluate first aid skills. Instructors become certified to teach the Lifesaving Emergency First Aid, Lifesaving Standard First Aid and Lifesaving CPR programs.

Prerequisites: current Standard First Aid award or AEC, Lifesaving Instructor Taught by: AEC/Lifesaving First Aid Instructor Trainer Evaluation: Evaluated by the Instructor Trainer. This is a pass or fail award.. Candidate Books: AEC/Lifesaving First Aid Instructor Package Lifesaving AED Instructor: Lifesaving AED Instructors are certified to teach and evaluate the Lifesaving AED award. Prerequisites: current AEC Instructor or Lifesaving First Aid Instructor and AED certification. Taught by: Lifesaving AED Instructor Trainer Evaluation: Evaluated by the Instructor Trainer. This is a pass or fail award.. Candidate Books: Lifesaving AED Instructor Package ***Expiry and Recertification for Instructor Levels: Expiry Date: Exactly 2 years from the date of certification Recertification Process: Ensure that a Lifeguarding pre-requisite is current (Bronze Cross or National Lifeguard Award). Credit Card Recertification process **Refer to Appendix A for the Credit List for Recertification process. Complete the Credit Card Recertification Form and return it to the office with the recertification fee. * Instructors and Examiners are required to attend a revision clinic in a revision year.

Lifesaving Society Programming Flowchart National Lifeguard Swim and Lifesaving Instructor Junior Lifeguard Club Lifesaving First Aid Bronze Cross Bronze Medallion Bronze Star kstar Patrol Ranger Patrol Rookie Patrol Swimmer 6 Swimmer 5 Adult 301 Bronze Swim Patrol Swim Swimmer 4 Adult 201 Swimmer 3 Adult 101 Swimmer 2 Preschool E Swimmer 1 Preschool D Preschool C Water Smart Experience Preschool B Preschool A Parent & Tot 3 Parent & Tot 2 Parent & Tot 1

Other Awards Aquatic Supervisor Training is a course developed by the Lifesaving Society for Lifesaving Instructors and National Lifeguards with on deck experience. The course will prepare Lifeguards and Instructors for the new responsibilities and challenges they will face when being placed in charge of an aquatic environment. Course Content: Roles, Responsibilities and Leadership Supervisory skills and the workplace Planning and Organization Communication Motivation and Evaluation Managing risk and the Aquatic Emergency Providing quality service Prerequisites: Current National Service certificate (any option), current Lifesaving Society Instructor award, and 100 hours of work as a lifeguard and/or instructor in either a paid or unpaid position prior to the start of the course. Evaluation: The course is evaluated by an Aquatic Supervisor Training Instructor. Instructor Qualifications: Aquatic Supervisor Training Instructor Award. Instructor Books: Program Guide, test sheets and Examiner Evaluation forms. Instructor Equipment: Contact the Branch for support documents including a precourse assignment and teaching box. Examiner Qualifications: No examiner is required. Candidate Books: Program Guide. Candidate Equipment: Complete pre-course assignment. Junior Lifeguard Club Coach clinic is designed to enable Instructors to make the switch from an Instructing environment to a coaching mentality. The course covers the content of the club, as well as helps build ideas and networking skills necessary to be a great coach. Course Content: Club concept Coaching for different age groups Safety Leadership, teamwork and apprenticeship Special events Activities and Competitions Prerequisites: Must be a current Lifesaving Instructor, have a current Lifeguarding certificate (preferably NLS), and have experience as a Lifeguard.

Parent Lifeguard Course teaches parents of preschoolers and school-age children the fundamentals of supervising their children in an aquatic environment. Parents will also learn CPR and how to handle emergency situations. There is no need for recertification after successful completion of the program. This is a dryland course, but water modules can be added. Time frame is one hour. Prerequisites: none Evaluation: participation only Taught by: Lifesaving Instructor with NLS training Instructor Books: Public Education document and CPR Student Manual Candidate Books: cardstock CPR Manual (optional) Award Recognition: participation certificate, whistle (optional) Instructor Trainer Training Instructor Trainers provide a high level of leadership and education to the Lifesaving Society, instructor candidates and program candidates. Instructor Trainers are trained by a Provincial Trainer. Provincial Trainers are Instructor Trainers as well and are appointed by the Branch to Provincial Trainer status. To become an Instructor Trainer at any level (excluding B.O.A.T. Instructor), candidates must successfully complete the Lifesaving Instructor Trainer Clinic. After taking the Clinic, instructor trainer candidates are eligible to apprentice to become one or all of the following: Lifesaving Instructor Trainer NLS (National Lifeguard Service) Instructor Trainer Aquatic Emergency Care (AEC)/ Lifesaving First Aid Instructor Trainer Two successful apprenticeships at the level of desired Instructor Trainer status are required. Instructor Trainer Clinic Prerequisites: Lifesaving Instructor, Advanced Instructor, Examiner appointment Evaluation/ Certification: Successfully apprentice two courses for the level you wish to be an Instructor Trainer. Successfully apprentice one course for each subsequent Instructor Trainer level. Taught by: Provincial Trainer Candidate Books: Instructor Notes, Bronze Medal Award Guide, Swim Patrol Award Guide, SWIM Award Guides (2), Canadian Lifesaving Manual, NLS Award Guide, Alert Manual, AEC/Lifesaving First Aid Package, Notes for Instructor Trainers

Programming and Administering Lifesaving Society Courses and Lessons This section will assist the aquatic programmer in how to set up courses and lessons such as Bronze Medallion, Swim Patrol, NLS, etc. ***For programming of the SWIM levels, please refer to the SWIM Affiliate disc. 1. Course Level see pages 2. Facility requirements Courses may be run in any pool or waterfront compatible with the award requirements. (i.e. depth requirements, etc.) 3. Instructor Requirements Lifesaving Society courses are taught by Society trained and certified Instructors. These instructors are employed by the affiliate, but are still accountable to the Lifesaving Society; their certifying agency. All Lifesaving Society members, instructors and examiners must abide by the Code of Conduct. (See Appendix ) See Section 4 (Awards, Programs and Certifications), pages specific instructor required to teach each award. for the **Lifesaving Instructors may also teach stand-alone CPR. 4. Course Prerequisites see pages 5. Course Length The amount of time necessary to ensure the success of candidates in lifesaving courses will vary. The amount and type of prior training that learners have received is a major factor. The following guideline outlines the minimum estimated time to teach a class of 10 learners and one instructor: Award Hours Rookie Patrol 8-10 Ranger Patrol 8-10 Star Patrol 8-10 Bronze Star, CPR A 10-12 Bronze Medallion, CPR B 15-20 Bronze Cross, CPR C 15-20 Distinction 20-25

Diploma 20-25 Aquatic Emergency Care, CPRC 15-20 Emergency First Aid Standard First Aid/CPR AED Boat Rescue 10 Lifesaving Fitness 10 National Lifeguard Service 40 Lifesaving Instructor/SWIM Instructor/ 40-44 Exam Standards combined course Aquatic Supervisor Training 10 Evaluation/Examination Time Guidelines Estimated time required to evaluate 10 candidates under normal circumstances: Award Hours Bronze Medallion 2.0 Bronze Cross 2.0 Distinction 2.5 Diploma 4.0-5.0 Aquatic Emergency Care 2.0-3.0 Boat Rescue 1.5-2.0 National Lifeguard Service 3.0-3.5 * This does not include final results and recommendations discussion. 6. Scheduling pool and classroom time Recommended water: classroom ratio: Canadian Swim Patrol levels can all be taught in water and on deck (resuscitation) Bronze Star can be taught in water and on deck (resuscitation skills) Bronze Medallion 80% water, 20% classroom/deck (for first aid/resuscitation criteria) Bronze Cross 80% water, 20% classroom/deck (for first aid/resuscitation criteria) Distinction & Diploma 90% water, 10% classroom/deck Boat Rescue 90% water, 10% classroom/deck Lifesaving Fitness 90% water, 10% classroom/deck Aquatic Emergency Care (AEC) 20% water, 80% classroom/deck Standard First Aid/CPR 100% classroom Emergency First Aid 100% classroom Stand-alone CPR 100% classroom Stand-alone AED 100% classroom National Lifeguard Service (NLS) 60% water, 40% classroom/deck Lifesaving Instructor/SWIM Instructor/Exam Standards Clinic 60% water,

40% classroom/deck 7. Equipment Required Lifesaving and lifeguard education requires practice with the use of water rescue, resuscitation and first aid equipment. Some award items specify certain equipment (e.g., lifejackets or PFDs in Rookie Patrol), but most refer only generically to rescue aids like reaching, throwing or towing assists, buoyant or otherwise. A variety of the standard commercial and/or home-made water rescue equipment are all that are required for most award levels. Resuscitation and first aid equipment are also useful. While not required, manikins or other suitable devices are recommended to enhance the learning of resuscitation skills. The use of barrier devices (pocket masks and gloves) is recommended.. A timing device is necessary for some awards that have timed swims and others require the learner to practice taking a pulse (their own or a victim's). A simple clock or watch would serve, although many instructors would prefer to use a large pace clock or stop watch. The following specific equipment is required to perform items in the various awards: Rookie Patrol - t shirt and shorts or long pants Ranger Patrol - 2.3 kg (5lb) weight Star Patrol - long-sleeved shirt and long pants, 4.5kg (10lb) weight, (CPR manikins - recommended) Bronze Star - 4.5kg (10lb) weight, shoulder loop and line, timing device, t-shirt and long pants and (CPR manikins - recommended) Bronze Medallion - t-shirt and long pants, and (CPR manikins recommended) Bronze Cross - 4.5 kg (10 lb) weight and (CPR manikins recommended) Distinction - shirt, pants, shoes; spine board Diploma - shirt and pants; skin diving mask, fins, snorkel; spine board Aquatic Emergency Care - spine board, basic first aid supplies Boat Rescue - A minimum of one boating vessel, personal floatation device and buoyant aids Lifesaving Fitness National Lifeguard - 4.5 kg.(10lb) weight and a 9 kg( 20 lb) weight - spine board, practice first aid kit, 9 kg(20lb) weight, CPR manikins recommended, (candidates must also have a whistle and lanyard).

8. Course Material and Literature The Lifesaving Society publishes a variety of resources designed for both candidates and instructors. Each Lifesaving award has required material and literature. Refer to pages. 9. Evaluation of the award All Lifesaving awards are evaluated on a pass or fail basis. Who evaluates: Lifesaving Instructors evaluate the following: Rookie Patrol, Ranger Patrol and Star Patrol Lifesaving Fitness Junior Resuscitation Bronze Star specified items in Bronze Medallion, Senior Resuscitation, Bronze Cross and Distinction (these are marked with an asterisk* in the Award Guides) Lifesaving Society Bronze level Examiners evaluate the following: Any Instructor-evaluated items at the examiner s discretion Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross and Senior Resuscitation NLS, AEC, First Aid, Distinction and Diploma evaluation: Examiners may only examine levels up to which they have completed their mentorship and have been appointed by the Branch. B.O.A.T. Instructors and designated B.O.A.T. proctors Evaluate/proctor B.O.A.T. exams. (Refer to B.O.A.T. Affiliate agreement for more details.) To request an examiner see page Unsuccessful Candidates: If a candidate fails the exam, the examiner will make recommendations to either a) repeat the entire course and exam or b) repeat the exam. **For NLS candidates, repeating the exam is not an option. Further instruction must be taken, as per the examiner s recommendations, before being re-examined. Candidates that are re-examined must be examined on all of the exam items, not the items that were failed. Unsuccessful candidates are encouraged to undertake the appropriate additional instruction and practice prior to presenting themselves for evaluation again. A pre-certification or recertification is not an appropriate venue for examination of an original NLS candidate.

10.Promoting/Advertising the Program Promotion and advertising methods (suggested): posters, pamphlets, newspaper, school newsletters, community-based organization newsletters, community radio, presentations at schools and Girl Guides/Scouts meetings, Lifesaving Society website. To assist in promoting Lifesaving Society awards and programs, the Branch stocks a variety of educational and promotional tools including pamphlets, posters and camera-ready material. All promotion/advertising must include the Lifesaving Society s name. In the case of written promotion/advertising, the Lifesaving Society s logo may used. Logos for B.O.A.T., SWIM and First Aid are also available. *Logos may not be changed or altered. Lifesaving Society Logos: Various sizes of the Lifesaving Society Logos are supplied. These may be used in association with any blurbs or presentations on lifesaving, WaterSmart behaviours or activities within the community. Award Descriptions: These descriptions are designed to increase public awareness and understanding of what each award is intended to do and for whom. Use these either individually or all together in your program promotional material. 11.Filling the class (candidate numbers) Suggestion: Sharing the course with surrounding communities. Invite the surrounding community pools/recreation office to take turns offering lifesaving courses each season. For example: Year 1 Pool A offers Bronze Medallion and everyone from surrounding communities travels to take the course. Year 2 Pool B offers the Bronze Medallion course to the surrounding communities. **This could assist in keeping the classes high in registration numbers, cost-sharing, etc. 12.Examining (this information excludes BOAT) To request an examiner: At least three weeks before the exam date, contact an Examiner in your area from a list of current examiners available from either the Branch office or your Regional Consultant. In order for an Examiner to travel, the Branch requires a minimum of six candidates. As well the Examiner may not travel outside a 100km radius without prior approval from the Director of Programs. Exceptions must be cleared through the Branch office a minimum of two weeks prior to the exam date (BM-BC only). Certified instructors/examiners are encouraged to evaluate their own classes.. *Examiners are volunteers and representatives of the Lifesaving Society. * If any of the above guidelines are not met to the satisfaction of the Branch office, then either partial or complete expenses will be the responsibility of the affiliate.