Update to CPR and First Aid Guidelines

Changes in first aid and CPR protocols are made every 5 years based on a review of the latest scientific research. The most recent recommendations were released on October 15, 2015 by the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) in collaboration with the American Heart Association.

The Lifesaving Society is collaborating with its national partner agencies to ensure a consistent Canadian interpretation of the new science and best practices applied to resuscitation and first aid protocols. The Society will study the recommendations in detail before determining what changes, if any, may be required in Lifesaving Society training programs and literature.

Lifesaving Society instructors, examiners and lifeguards should not change their teaching, evaluation or performance of resuscitation or first aid skills until the Society officially announces changes to its program and literature. Instructors and examiners should continue to follow Lifesaving Society Award Guides for the performance requirements for Lifesaving Society certifications.

The Society will advise when any changes are to be introduced.