Ages 13+

In Bronze Medallion we emphasize the lifesaving principles embodied in the four components of water-rescue education: judgement, knowledge, skill, and fitness. Rescuers learn tows and carries as well as defence methods and releases, preparing themselves for challenging rescues of increased risk involving conscious and unconscious victims of various types. To take this 20-hour course, you must be 13 years or older, or have completed Bronze Star. The course requires 100% attendance and participation to complete. The manual is included in the program fee. Bronze Medallion is a Lifesaving Society (LS) certification offered through the YMCA.

Ages 13+

We offer Bronze Cross classes for lifesavers who want the challenge of more advanced training, including an introduction to safe supervision in aquatic facilities. In this class we focus on the principles of teamwork, procedures, and the use of special equipment. To take this 20-hour course, you must have completed Bronze Medallion. The course requires 100% attendance and participation to complete. Bronze Cross is a Lifesaving Society (LS) certification offered through the YMCA. It is a prerequisite for all LS advanced training programs, including National Lifeguard and Instructor certifications.

Ages 15+

Learn how to fulfill your role as a professional facilitator of safe, enjoyable aquatics for everyone! The National Lifeguard (NL) course emphasizes teamwork, leadership, and communication in the prevention of accidents and in first aid treatment of medical emergencies. To take this course you must be 15 years or older AND have completed Bronze Cross and Standard First Aid. The course requires 100% attendance and participation to complete. The manual is included in the program fee. National Lifeguard is a Lifesaving Society (LS) certification offered through the YMCA. National Lifeguard is the only nationally recognized lifeguard certification in Canada.

Ages 16+

Share your love of swimming with others! As a leader in the pool, you can play an essential role in helping others learn to swim and improve their health in many ways. You will learn a variety of teaching techniques, lesson planning, progressions, and more. To put it all into practice, you'll also work alongside a certified YMCA Swim Instructor to teach children during a swim lesson. To take this 40 hour course, you must be 16 years or older, hold a current National Lifeguard (NL) or Bronze Cross certification, current Standard First Aid, and you must be able to swim strokes at the YMCA Intermediate stroke standard or equivalent. In order to successfully complete the course, 100% attendance and participation is required. Once a candidate has completed the course, a session of successful co-instructing will be required in order to receive certification as a YMCA Swim Instruction. The manuals and certification are included in the course fee.

Ages 12+

Learn to identify an illness or injury in a medical emergency. Discover and practice simple techniques to care for a casualty as a first responder. After completing this 16-hour course, you will be certified in Standard Fist Aid and CPR Level C.