Who teaches and certifies National Lifeguard candidates?

Current National Lifeguard Instructors teach the National Lifeguard option(s) they hold and evaluate most items, but only current National Lifeguard Examiners may certify candidates. An instructor or examiner must hold the same option as the course: for example, an Instructor with National Lifeguard Pool teaches Pool, and an Examiner with Pool certifies Pool candidates (the same applies to Waterfront, Waterpark and Surf).

Candidates receive a National Lifeguard certification card. The required reference is Alert: Lifeguarding in Action; some affiliates supply it and others require candidates to buy it. Instructors are encouraged to use the National Lifeguard PowerPoint presentation and other resources on the Teaching National Lifeguard USB.

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