The National Lifeguard Service
NLS builds on the fundamental skills, knowledge and values taught in the lifesaving awards of the Royal Life Saving Society Canada to develop the practical skills and knowledge required by Lifeguards.
Recognized as the standard measurement of Lifeguard performance in Canada, NLS 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 (currently NLS is the required Lifeguarding certification to legally Lifeguard within the province of Ontario).
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 fulfil this role as professional facilitators of safe, enjoyable aquatics.
The NLS course cannot in theory or practice prepare candidates for every situation which 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 to evaluate and adapt 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, Water Park and Surf.
The following are core topics for the NLS (base) program:
ITEM #1 - Lifeguard Theory and Practice
ITEM # 2 - Resuscitation Skills
ITEM # 3 - Lifeguarding Techniques
ITEM # 4 - Lifeguarding Skills
ITEM # 5 - First Aid Skills
ITEM # 6 - Fitness
ITEM # 7 - Use of Equipment
ITEM # 8 - Lifeguarding Situations*
ITEM # 9 - Pool Analysis
ITEM # 10 - Entries and Removals
ITEM # 11 - Specialized Rescues
At ADET, our Emergency Care Educators are professional National Lifeguard Service Instructor-Trainers and Examiners, proficient in the skills and techniques of aquatic emergencies, throughout pool, waterfront, lake and surf emergency situations.
Our resource materials have been researched and updated to provide each candidate with the reference material needed to support and reinforce skills and techniques learned. Our trainers foster a positive and co-operative atmosphere for learning, integrating topics so that overall course themes are clear and provide simple action plans for dealing with emergencies. By maximizing practical experience, candidates learn best by DOING, allowing for practice and review of vital skills. Evaluation is progressive, providing opportunities for self, peer and instructor feedback.