How to Become a Lifeguard
Done with swimming lessons or getting close and wondering what the next steps are to become a Lifeguard in BC? Most facilities will require you to have the following certifications:
National Lifeguard Pool (NL), Swim Instructor (SI), Standard First Aid - level C (SFA-C)
While most pools have similar requirements, they can differ so always make sure to double check with where you would like to work.
Done all your courses and looking for a job as a Lifeguard? Apply today ➝
Starting Courses
Bronze Medallion
Requirements: age 13+ or completion of Bronze Star. Often taught as a combo course before Bronze Cross.
Bronze Cross
Requirements: age 13+, completed Bronze Medallion. Often taught as a combo course following Bronze Medallion. Is a pre-requisite to take your National Lifeguard certification.
National Lifeguard (NL)
Requirements: age 15+, completed Bronze Cross, Standard First Aid - level C. The Pool Option is the most common version offered and required, but there are Waterpark, Beach, and Surf options available depending on the location and conditions in which you will work.
Swim Instructor (SI)
Currently this course is offered by the Red Cross who is ending their participation in Water Safety courses and lessons at the end of 2022. There will be a alternative course offered by the Lifesaving Society of BC starting at some point in 2022 for those who have not started it. For those already certified as a Red Cross WSI, there will be an online transfer course to transfer your existing certification to the new Lifesaving Society standard also sometime in 2022.
Where to Sign-Up?
Some of these courses for future Lifeguards are actually offered at the Outdoor Pools. All Lifesaving, Lifeguarding, and Water Safety courses at the outdoor pools are taught by the City of Surrey’s Advanced Leadership Team and not organized or instructed by Tide’s Out. A full list of courses and can be found on the City of Surrey’s website.
City of Surrey Lifeguarding and Aquatic Instructor Training - full course listings here ➝
Or check here for links to courses running soon at the Outdoor Pools - click here ➝