At Making Waves, our dedication to ensuring safety in aquatic environments runs deep, and we are proud to offer a wide range of Lifesaving Courses. The Swim Patrol programs are designed to introduce children to valuable first aid techniques and essential lifesaving skills. For those seeking a greater challenge, our Bronze Medal Courses provide advanced training, including comprehensive CPR instruction. We are pleased to offer these courses at our convenient locations in Brampton, Milton, and Mississauga.
If you are interested in joining one of these courses, we encourage you to reach out to your nearest location through our online platform for further information and enrollment.
Prerequisite: Prior completion of Big Wave Level 10 is highly recommended (Minimum Level 8). Suitable for children aged 8 to 12 years.
During these courses, swimmers will continue developing their stroke technique, focusing on front crawl, back crawl, and breaststroke. Participants will also be introduced to the exciting world of lifesaving sport through activities like a 25-meter obstacle swim and a 15-meter object carry. First aid training will cover the assessment of conscious victims, activating EMS, and providing appropriate treatment for bleeding. In addition to this, participants will undergo rigorous fitness assessments, including 350-meter workouts and timed 100-meter swims.
Class Ratio: 12 students per instructor
Prerequisite: Completion of the Rookie level is highly recommended. Suitable for children aged 8 to 12 years.
These courses are specially designed to enhance swimmers’ stroke techniques by challenging them with 75-meter swims in each stroke style. Lifesaving skills will be practiced through engaging activities such as a lifesaving medley and timed object support and rescue using a buoyant aid. First aid training will focus on the assessment of unconscious victims, treatment of individuals in shock, and techniques for dealing with obstructed airways. Participants will also engage in skill drills to establish a strong foundation in lifesaving.
Class Ratio: 12 students per instructor
Prerequisite: Completion of the Ranger level is highly recommended. Suitable for children aged 8 to 12 years.
Participants in this course will face increased challenges, including 600-meter workouts, timed 300-meter swims, and a 25-meter object carry. Stroke refinement will be a core component with 100-meter swims. First aid instruction will encompass specialized topics such as the treatment of bone or joint injuries, as well as respiratory emergencies like asthma and allergic reactions. Lifesaving skills will involve defensive methods, victim removal techniques, and the ability to roll over and support a victim face up in shallow water.
Class Ratio: 12 students per instructor
Each year, over 800,000 Canadians participate in Lifesaving Society training programs, including the prestigious National Lifeguard certification. Here at Making Waves, we offer the Lifesaving Society Bronze Medal courses, which include the Bronze Star, Bronze Medallion, and Bronze Cross. These courses provide a fun and challenging pathway for individuals interested in pursuing lifeguarding or instructing.
Prerequisite(s): Prior completion of Star Patrol is highly recommended. Candidates must be 12 years of age by the exam date.
By enrolling in the Bronze Star course, students will enhance their swimming abilities, gain valuable CPR skills, and cultivate problem-solving and decision-making capabilities. This course serves as excellent preparation for success in the Bronze Medallion certification and includes a timed 400-meter swim.
Class Ratio: 12 students per instructor
Required Qualification(s): Individuals must hold a Bronze Star Certification or be at least 13 years old by the examination date.
Materials Needed: The Canadian Lifesaving Manual
Students will acquire knowledge and comprehension of the fundamental principles of water-rescue education, consisting of judgment, knowledge, skill, and physical fitness. Rescuers will be trained in various techniques such as tows, carries, defense methods, and releases in preparation for more challenging rescues involving conscious and unconscious victims. Additionally, participants will develop their stroke efficiency and endurance by completing a 500-meter timed swim. This comprehensive course amalgamates the Bronze Medallion and the Lifesaving Society Emergency First Aid/CPR-B certifications.
Class Ratio: 16 students per instructor
Preconditions: To attend this course, individuals must possess a Bronze Medallion award as well as Emergency First Aid with CPR-B certification or Standard First Aid with CPR-C certification.
Materials Needed: The Canadian Lifesaving Manual
This course targets those who wish to undertake advanced training in lifeguarding, including the fundamental knowledge of ensuring safety in aquatic facilities. Completion of the Bronze Cross course is mandatory for further progress in advanced training programs like National Lifeguard and Instructor Certification. Participants’ endurance will be thoroughly assessed through a timed 600-meter swim. By undertaking this course, individuals will earn certifications for Bronze Cross, Lifesaving Society Standard First Aid/CPR-C, and Automatic External Defibrillation.
Class Ratio: 16 students per instructor
Preconditions: To be eligible for this course, individuals must be at least 16 years old by the examination date and possess a Bronze Cross certification (not necessarily current). In addition, they must hold a valid Standard First Aid certification from one of the following agencies: Lifesaving Society, Canadian Red Cross, St. John Ambulance, Canadian Ski Patrol (not necessarily current).
The National Lifeguard certification program is nationally recognized and serves as a legal qualification for lifeguarding duties across the country. It is one of the few lifeguard certificates acknowledged by the province of Ontario.
Class Ratio: 16 students per instructor
