First Responder
The Lifesaving Society has a variety of Specialized Lifesaving programs including Boat Rescue, Boat Rescue for First Responders and Swiftwater Rescue.
Swift Water Rescue 1
Swiftwater Rescue 1 focuses on recreating and working safely around moving water. The course emphasis is on hazard identification, self-rescue and the use of basic river rescue equipment. Candidates will be introduced to low-risk, shore-based rescue options. Swiftwater Rescue 1 serves as a foundation for Swiftwater Rescue 2. It is recommended training for anyone who works in river rescue environments (including firefighters, resource management personnel, outdoor guides) and anyone recreating in a swift water environment (i.e.: using a canoe or kayak on a river).
Note: This course is consistent with the NFPA 1670 Standard for Awareness in swiftwater rescue incidents
Pre-requisite(s): Current AB workplace approved Intermediate First Aid (Aquatic Emergency Care or Lifesaving Intermediate First Aid recommended) and the ability to swim
Swift Water Rescue 2
Swiftwater Rescue 2 builds on the foundational self-rescue skills and low-risk rescue options covered in the Swiftwater Rescue 1 course. Focus is placed on technique and equipment usage in the rescue of others. Swiftwater Rescue 2 serves as the standard of care or recommended training for those who work in or on moving water.
Note: This course is consistent with the NFPA 1670 Standard for Operations in swiftwater rescue incidents
Pre-requisite(s): Swiftwater Rescue 1, current AB workplace approved Intermediate First Aid (Aquatic Emergency Care or Lifesaving Intermediate First Aid recommended) and the ability to complete the swim.
Boat Rescue
Boat Rescue provides candidates lifesaving knowledge and rescue skills for those engaged in small craft activities. The Boat Rescue course is designed for those who are already skilled in handling their craft. Training emphasizes self-rescue techniques, recognition of emergencies, factors in rescue craft performance and proper emergency response procedures. Since boat rescue techniques vary considerably with the type of craft and the wind and weather conditions, the requirements of the award specify the type of victim, rather than the method of rescue.
Pre-requisite(s): Ability to swim and craft-handling skills is required. A Pleasure Craft Operator (PCO) card is required if motorized craft are being used in the course.
Boat Rescue for First Responders
Boat Rescue for First Responders prepares rescuers to play a leadership role in a boating emergency. Candidates acquire the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to prevent and respond to boat-assisted and boat-based rescues. Since boat rescue techniques vary considerably with the type of craft and the wind and weather conditions, the requirements of the award specify the type of victim, rather than the method of rescue. Boat Rescue for First Responders is recommended training for those working in resource management, emergency response or the outdoor industry.
Note: This course is consistent with the NFPA 1670 Standard for Operations in open water rescue incidents
Pre-requisite(s): 18 years of age, current AB workplace approved Intermediate First Aid (Aquatic Emergency Care or Lifesaving Intermediate First Aid recommended), ability to swim, a Pleasure Craft Operator (PCO) card and basic boat handling skills
For more information on First Responder Courses, refer to the Policies & Procedures.