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Lifesaving & Swim Certifications

Become a lifeguard or swim instructor by taking Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross, National Lifeguard, Lifesaving/Swim for Life Instructor and Intermediate First Aid courses.

Junior Lifesaving Club


In the pool and on the deck, this program provides challenges in an energetic learning environment. Youth will develop skills in swimming, lifesaving, fitness, knowledge, leadership, and teamwork. Community involvement and competition can also be part of the program. Swimming 50-metre and treading water for one minute are prerequisites.

Bronze Star


Bronze Star is the pre-Bronze Medallion training standard and excellent preparation for success in Bronze Medallion. In Bronze Star, participants develop problem-solving and decision-making skills as individuals and with partners. They learn CPR and develop Water Smart® confidence and the lifesaving skills needed to be their own personal lifeguard. Includes CPR A. Prerequisite: 12 years and older.

Bronze Medallion


Bronze Medallion Award teaches an understanding of the lifesaving principles embodied in the four components of water rescue education: judgment, knowledge, skill, and fitness. Rescuers learn tows and carries, and defense and release methods in preparation for challenging rescues of increased risk involving conscious and unconscious victims of various types. Lifesavers develop stroke efficiency and endurance in a timed swim. Includes CPR C and AED. Prerequisite: Bronze Star or 13 years old prior to the last day of the course. This course requires 100% attendance and participation to complete.

Bronze Cross


Bronze Cross is designed for lifesavers who want the challenge of more advanced training, including an introduction to safe supervision in aquatic facilities. Bronze Cross is a prerequisite for all advanced training programs including National Lifeguard and Instructor Certification. Prerequisite: Bronze Medallion Award and a current Alberta workplace approved Intermediate First Aid Certification. Proof of prerequisite will be requested on the first day of this course. This course requires 100% attendance and participation to complete. Please bring your manual used in Bronze Medallion.

Bronze Cross - Recertification


This course is designed for lifesavers who have an expired Bronze Cross Award. This course covers updated water rescue techniques, CPR skills and knowledge, and includes an exam. Prerequisite: Previously held a Bronze Cross Award. Proof of prerequisite will be requested on the day of this course. This course requires 100% attendance and participation to complete.

Lifesaving Instructor


This certification allows candidates to teach and evaluate, Canadian Swim Patrol, Bronze Star, Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross. Completion of this course also includes Lifesaving CPR Instructor certification. Prerequisite: 15 years old and current Bronze Cross or higher and Swim for Life Instructor Certfication. Apprenticeship: In course. Certification Currency: two years from the date of certification. This course requires 100% attendance and participation to complete.

Lifesaving/Swim for Life Instructor


This certification allows candidates to teach and evaluate Swim for Life® programs, Canadian Swim Patrol, Bronze Star, Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross. Completion of this course also includes Lifesaving CPR Instructor certification. Prerequisite: 15 years old and current Bronze Cross or higher. Apprenticeship: In course. Certification Currency: two years from the date of certification.

National Lifeguard


The Lifesaving Society’s National Lifeguard certification builds on the fundamental skills, knowledge, fitness, judgment and values taught in the prerequisite Bronze Cross award. Prerequisite: Bronze Cross, current Intermediate First Aid and minimum 15 years of age.