Lifesaving Society's National Lifeguard Course Content

Physical Items

The purpose of the physical items in the National Lifeguard program is to ensure the lifeguard's physical fitness and ability to rescue victims at the time of emergency. All National Lifeguard candidates are encouraged to train and ensure that they're able to meet these physical requirements prior their course and even after successful completion of it.

1. Endurace Challenge

Distance: 400m
All strokes are allowed
Distance must be completed in or under 10 minutes.

2. Sprint Challenge

Distance: 50m
Distance must be completed in or under 60 seconds
Breast Stroke or Front Crawl is allowed
In-water start

3. Object recovery

Distance: 20m
Approach: 15m
Carry: 5m
Must be completed in or under 40 seconds
Candidates head must stay out of the water during the carry
Head-up or head-down approach are acceptable

4. Under-Water Swim

Distance: 15m
Depth of 1.5 meters must be maintained throughout the item

5. Rescue drill

Item must be completed in or under 90 seconds
25m approach and carry
Recovery of submerged manikin or victim to the surface

Management Items

These items are designed to prepare you to respond to specific emergencies.

1. Management of Distressed or Drowning Victim

2. Spinal Injury Management and Boarding

3. Management of Submerged Victim

Lifeguard Theory & Practice

1. Roles & Responsibilities of the Lifeguard

2. Chemicals Used in Pools

3. Lifeguard & the Law

4. Inservices & On-going Training

5. Pool Facility Analysis

6. Lifeguard Communication

7. Scanning & Supervision

8. Positioning & Rotation

9. Intervention

Specialized techniques

The below items are commonly taught to the National Lifeguard candidates. Your instructor may teach you additional examinable techniques during the course.

1. Corner Spinals

2. Seizures

3. Double clutch

4. Missing Persons Procedure

Exam:

Your National Lifeguard Exam will consist of lifeguarding situations, also known as "Sits". Candidates will be faced with a number of situations in which they will be able to demonstrate their ability and skills. See below for the criteria to pass your National Lifeguard exam.

1. Effective lifeguard positioning

2. Effective observation skills & scanning techniques

3. Timely recognition & appropriate response

4. Appropriate execution of procedures

5. Effective execution of roles in the management of the situations

6. Selection and demonstration of effective rescue techniques

7. Appropriate first aid treatment if required

8. Accurate communication with EMS at earliest possible moment

9. Continued safety supervision of other patrons throughout

10. Concern for good public relations

11. Appropriate and effective direction of bystanders where applicable

12. Accurate reporting and appropriate follow-up