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AID&Water Safety Course

IASE (International Aquatic Safety Education) and ILS (International Lifesaving Federation) have joined forces in a strategic collaboration to create a globally accepted, standardized water safety program and certification for surfing and stand-up paddle (SUP) coaches and instructors. In its inaugural year (2017), this program achieved remarkable success, with 27 sessions conducted in 17 countries, training 290 surf and SUP instructors.

The IASE/ILS International Surf and SUP Instructor Aquatic Rescue and Safety Program is specifically tailored to the surf instruction environment and is accessible to all IASE and ILS members. This program can be delivered by ILS member organizations and qualified trainers/assessors.

The primary objectives of this program are as follows:

  • Establish a consistent global standard for water safety certification for Surf/SUP instructors, as existing requirements vary from country to country. This certification can be easily transferred, benefiting coaches who travel.
  • Complement the ISA Coaching and Instructing Program, which mandates all ISA-accredited instructors to hold a valid, internationally recognized water safety certification.
  • Promote water safety on a global scale.
  • Enhance the value of the ISA Coaching Certification and provide more opportunities for program participants.
Course Details:

This program spans two days and includes theoretical, practical, and group activities. Assessment is based on competency, with successful completion contingent on the following criteria:

  • Full attendance during the training course and successful completion of practical assessments.
  • Completion of the Basic Surf Fitness Test.
  • Demonstrated competency in all practical assessments.
  • Fulfillment of the course participant workbook.

The Basic Surf Fitness Test consists of a run-swim-run to showcase surf skills in small to moderate surf conditions. It must be completed within a 5-minute timeframe, including a minimum 100m run, navigating the inner surf zone with a 100m swim through the surf and impact zone, followed by another 100m run. Course presenters may extend or modify the Basic Surf Fitness Test based on prevailing conditions.

Practical Assessments cover unconscious board rescue, basic first aid techniques in various scenarios, and the provision of basic emergency care, including CPR.

All participants will receive an IASE/ILS Water Safety Accreditation valid for two years, fulfilling the minimum water safety requirement for the ISA Coaching and Instructing Program. This accreditation includes international ILS endorsement and recognition.

Who Can Present:

All presenters of the IASE/ILS International Surf and SUP Instructor Aquatic Rescue and Safety Program must receive approval from IASE and have the authority to deliver the course. Qualified presenters include:

  • Individuals with formal ILS-endorsed trainer/assessor lifesaving qualifications or those who can demonstrate the necessary knowledge and skills. Such individuals must submit their CV and qualifications for review by IASE/ILS.
  • ILS Member Organizations and Lifesaving Trainers with appropriate qualifications and knowledge of the course competencies. To identify the ILS Member in your nation, consult the ILS Membership Directory.
  • Potential course presenters can apply to the IASE Office by submitting a CV, lifesaving qualifications, and lifesaving experience to office@iase-surf.com

Renewal: The IASE/ILS Water Safety Accreditation must be renewed every two years.

Please Note: Individual member nations may have specific requirements regarding CPR and fitness recertification.