Before taking part in the course, all candidates must be 16 years of age, and must be able to meet the following fitness criteria:
- 1. jump / dive into deep water
- 2. swim 50 metres in less than 60 seconds
- 3. swim 100 metres continuously on front and back in deep water.
- 4. tread water for 30 seconds
- 5. surface dive to the floor of the pool
- 6. climb out unaided without ladder / steps and where the pool design permits