Bronze Cross with Intermediate First Aid (32hr): Bronze Cross begins the transition from lifesaving to lifeguarding and prepares candidates for responsibilities as assistant lifeguards. Candidates strengthen and expand their lifesaving skills and begin to apply the principles and techniques of active surveillance in aquatic facilities. Bronze Cross emphasizes the importance of teamwork and communication in preventing and responding to aquatic emergencies. Intermediate First Aid is the WSIB-recognized certification required by various workplaces, including lifeguards. Designed for those who require a more in-depth understanding of first aid and CPR. This course is a prerequisite for National Lifeguard course.
Prerequisite: Bronze Medallion and Basic First Aid or Emergency First Aid with CPR-B (need not be current)
Strongly recommended materials: Canadian Lifesaving Manual (same as Bronze Medallion)
Required Materials: Canadian First Aid Manual 2026 edition (available as an add-on during registration).
Physical Requirements:
1. Surface dives and underwater swims:a. Demonstrate a head-first surface dive (maximum depth 2 m) and swim underwater 10 m.b. Demonstrate a foot-first surface dive (maximum depth 2 m) and swim underwater 10 m.2. Spinal injury management: Respond to a breathing or non-breathing suspected spinal-injured victim located in shallow water or on land.3. Object recovery and transport: Demonstrate anaerobic fitness and strength for an object recovery: starting in the water, swim 15 m and surface dive to recover a 4.5 kg (10 lb.) object; surface and carry the object 5 m – all within 60 seconds.4. Rescue drill: Starting in the water, swim head-up to recover a submerged manikin or victim located 20 m away; surface and carry the manikin or victim 20 m to starting point – all within 120 seconds.5. Endurance challenge: Swim 400 m within 11 minutes (400 yd. in 9:40 minutes).
Verification of Identity Policy
All candidates; whether original or recertification, must verify their identity to the instructor. Original, copy, or digital copies of identification are accepted.
The Lifesaving Society Ontario (the ""Society"") requires that the candidates legal name must appear on all certifications it issues. Candidates may also provide a preferred name, which may be displayed on the certification if requested; however, it does not replace the legal name.
Important: The last day of this course includes the exam and feedback session, which may extend slightly past the scheduled end time.

The McDonald Family YMCA Centre of Community is a dynamic community hub in the heart of downtown Toronto. We offer programs for adults, teens, children and families of all ages and abilities including fitness, aquatics, camping, youth leadership, recreational sports, children's programs, and more.