What is the path to becoming a National Lifeguard?

The Society's "How to Become a Lifeguard" flow chart shows Bronze Star, Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross (with Intermediate First Aid with CPR-C) and the four National Lifeguard options (Pool, Waterfront, Waterpark, Surf), with Basic First Aid with CPR-C also shown.

• Bronze Medallion: minimum age 13, or Bronze Star.
• Bronze Cross (20 hours): prerequisite is Bronze Medallion plus Basic First Aid or Intermediate First Aid. It begins the transition from lifesaving to lifeguarding and prepares candidates as assistant lifeguards. It is a prerequisite for National Lifeguard.
• National Lifeguard (40 hours for Pool or Waterfront): minimum age 15.

Bronze awards can be combined with first aid awards in one course; the Society suggests National Lifeguard plus Intermediate First Aid takes 52 hours.

Source: Lifesaving Society Ontario Program Guide, July 2026 edition (Section 7).