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 judgment 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: Minimum 16 years of age, Bronze Cross, Aquatic Emergency Care or Standard First Aid and CPR C.
Evaluation: NLS Examiner evaluated.  This is a pass or fail award.
Taught by: NLS Instructor

Course Length: Approximately 40 hours
Candidate Books:  Canadian Lifesaving Manual, Alert: Lifeguarding in Action Manual, and NLS Award Guide.
Expiry Date:  Exactly 2 years from the date of certification.
Recertification Process:  Re-examination of award items every two years. (Approximately 4 – 6 hour time length of exam.)

The Role of a Lifeguard

The main role of a lifeguard is PREVENTION and EDUCATION.  In the event that prevention fails, the lifeguard will then respond as a rescue expert.

Lifeguard Training:  the National Lifeguard Service – NLS standard is the standard for lifeguard training in Canada. The majority of lifeguards in Canada are certified in the Lifesaving Society NLS lifeguard training program and are therefore trained to the NLS standard. 

Lifeguarding in Saskatchewan

In Saskatchewan, the minimum certification for a lifeguard is:  Standard First Aid or Aquatic Emergency Care, CPR and Bronze Cross. These standards are established by Saskatchewan Public Health. NOTE:  Bronze Cross is a water rescue course.  It does not teach lifeguard skills or prevention, only lifesaving response.  The Lifesaving Society recommends taking NLS for training in specific lifeguard skills and knowledge.

How to find an NLS Course near you

Option #1: Contact your local aquatic facility for a list of their courses.
Option #2: Visit our website: Lifelines and Additional Upcoming Courses

>>Saskatchewan Swimming Pool Regulations