The Lifesaving Society: Protecting Lives through Water Safety
The Lifesaving Society is a humanitarian organization committed to the preservation of human life by preventing drowning and water-related injuries. Through various programs and educational campaigns, the Society tirelessly works to teach vital swimming and survival skills, raise awareness, and foster a culture of safety around water.
Swim to Survive Program
One of the flagship initiatives of the Lifesaving Society is the "Swim to Survive" program. While many young people claim they know how to swim, there is an important difference between being comfortable in water and being able to truly swim, especially in emergencies. The program aims to make every child aware of this gap and provide the fundamental swimming skills necessary to survive a sudden fall into deep water.
This educational and physical program is offered to students from grades 3 to 6 (ages 8 and up). Not only does it play a vital role in preventing drowning, but it also enhances self-esteem, encourages children to be active, and promotes regular visits to aquatic facilities.
The Swim to Survive Standard
The "Swim to Survive" standard assesses each child’s aquatic abilities and teaches three crucial survival skills:
- Orienting oneself at the water's surface after an unexpected fall (Roll entry)
- Staying afloat and identifying a safe location (Treading water for 1 minute)
- Swimming towards a safe spot (Swimming 50 meters)
These skills, established by the Canadian Swim to Survive standard, represent the minimum abilities required for surviving an unexpected fall into deep water. Mastering them significantly increases the chances of reaching safety, even in less favorable conditions.
Eligibility and Financial Aid
The program is available to elementary school students in grades 3 to 6, primarily in the Quebec region. Organizations must meet specific eligibility criteria, such as collaborating with a local aquatic center and securing cost estimates for participation. Financial assistance is available and determined by factors such as transport, pool rental, and lifeguard or instructor wages, with subsidies provided by the Ministry of Education up to a maximum per student.
The Lifesaving Society’s Ongoing Mission
Beyond "Swim to Survive," the Lifesaving Society engages in multiple campaigns and challenges (such as "Défi Nage avec moi" and "Mission Plouf") to raise water safety awareness. The Society also relies on the support of donors and partners to extend its reach and save more lives every year.
Through its commitment to education, advocacy, and community involvement, the Lifesaving Society stands as a crucial protector of public health, actively working toward a future where drowning tragedies are a thing of the past.