Solo Swims of Ontario Inc.

Standards for the Swim Master

Marathon swimmers, coaches or others with related experience are eligible to become a Swim Master.

The Swim Master is an authorized representative of SSO and must meet stringent requirements before being certified. The SSO Board of Directors is responsible for the ratification of an SSO member as a Swim Master.

Swim Master candidates must serve an apprenticeship involving acting as an Assistant Swim Master at two or more marathon swims at the discretion of the supervising Swim Masters and/or SSO Board. At the end of the apprenticeship, the supervising Swim Masters will each submit a report to the Board with a recommendation concerning ratification of the apprentice as a Swim Master. Candidates will be judged on the following criteria:

• Attendance at a Swim Master Workshop,
• Letters of recommendation from two different supervising Swim Masters,
• Leadership abilities,
• Swimming and rescue ability*,
• Knowledge of boat safety,
• A written Swim Master quiz is used to ensure adequacy of the candidate's knowledge,
• Driving experience and ability to handle an inflatable boat (Zodiac) with a swimmer,
• Obtained a Pleasure Craft Operator's Card,
• First aid and CPR training **

* Candidates without lifeguard qualifications (minimum Bronze Cross) are given ratification with restrictions, namely that they must always work with a qualified lifeguard who should always be by the swimmer's side.

** Those candidates without recognized First Aid and CPR qualifications are given ratification with restrictions, namely that they must always work with a person with these medical qualifications who should generally be stationed on the evacuation boat.

In addition, completion of a Power Squadron Course and a Radio Operation License are considered an optional asset.

Swim Master Standards: compiled by Marilyn Korzekwa, Chair of Risk Management, SSO.

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Created: 15^th December 1998
Last Updated: 13^th June 2015