Younger lifeguards will be permitted at pools and recreational camps this summer.

The province is lowering the age requirement to 15 years of age from 16 as of today (June 2, 2023).

It is hoped this will address the shortage of lifeguards.

“As school rises for the summer and the weather warms up, we spend more time enjoying pools and camp waterfronts,” states Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, in a release. “Lowering the age for youth to become lifeguards creates more job opportunities for youth in a rewarding position that can help keep community pools and recreational camp waterfronts safe.”

The lower age limit also applies to those seeking a job as an assistant lifeguard or aquatic instructor.

They still need to pass a series of swimming tests and hold the appropriate certifications.

The province says the lower age limit also aligns with requirements established in 2020 by the Lifesaving Society’s certification course.

The Society delivers the National Lifeguard training and certification, the professional standard for lifeguarding in Canada.

It certifies lifeguards across the country and is recognized by the province for lifeguarding public swimming pools.