Lifesavers learn how to treat victims with obstructed airways, care for bleeding and contact emergency medical services. All items are evaluated by the Lifesaving Instructor. Lifesavers practice obstructed airway techniques for conscious and unconscious victims, victim assessment and emergency care for a variety of victim types including pulseless victims. RA is a prerequisite for all advanced lifesaving awards. Some items are evaluated by the Lifesaving Instructor, others by a Bronze Examiner.
Emphasis is placed on vital signs, priority assessment and basic aquatic emergency care principles.
Prior training in Bronze Medallion is recommended. Recognized as the standard measurement of lifeguard performance in Canada, NLS education is designed to develop a sound understanding of lifeguarding principles, good judgment and a mature and responsible attitude toward the role of the lifeguard. 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 fulfill 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 lifeguards working in Canadian aquatic environments and facilities.