Training Program

Ranger Patrol

The Lifesaving Society Canadian Swim Patrol (CSP) is a three-level pre-Bronze program for 8-12 year olds who are ready to move beyond the learn-to-swim program. Candidates earn recognition for success in swimming, first aid and water rescue along with badges for overall award achievement. It is recommended that candidates take the Rookie Patrol program before the Ranger Patrol program.

Prerequisites: Ability to swim.

Evaluation: All items in Ranger Patrol are evaluated by a Lifesaving Instructor or YMCA Swim Instructor.

Test items:

H2O Proficiency

1. Demonstrate one forward AND one backward somersault in the water, as a continuous sequence.
2. Stride entry and swim 25 m head-up front crawl or breaststroke. Assume the ready position.
3. Demonstrate a 25 m eggbeater kick on back.
4. Support a 2.3 kg (5 lb) object for at least 1 minute in deep water.
5. Head-up approach into a surface dive to a maximum depth of 2 m. Swim underwater for at least 2–3 m to recover a small object. Surface and carry the object to the starting point.
6. Demonstrate an assisted removal of a conscious victim.
7. Swim front crawl, back crawl, and breaststroke (75 m each).
8. Swim a 100 m individual medley as follows: 25 m each of lifesaving kick, back crawl, breaststroke and front crawl.
9. Swim 200 m in 6 minutes or better using any stroke or combination of strokes of the swimmer’s choice.

First Aid

1. Demonstrate a primary assessment including hazards and airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs) on an unconscious, breathing victim.
2. Demonstrate emergency care for a victim in shock.
3. Simulate the appearance and treatment of a conscious adult or child with an obstructed airway.

Recognition and Rescue

1. Demonstrate:
   1. The ability to simulate in the water, the appearance of a weak swimmer, non-swimmer and an unconscious victim.
   2. The ability to recognize the difference between a weak swimmer and non-swimmer, and to recognize an unconscious victim.
   3. The ability to recognize and avoid victims who present a danger to the rescuer.
2. Perform a non-contact rescue using a buoyant aid. Approach 20 m and encourage the victim to safety while maintaining a safe distance and calling for assistance. Rescuer performs appropriate follow-up procedures, including treatment for shock.