The sport is overseen by the International Life Saving Federation (ILS), which was established on 27 March 1910 in Paris.

The ILS states that 'lifesaving sport was primarily intended to encourage lifesavers to develop, maintain and improve the essential physical and mental skills needed to save lives in the aquatic environment.'

The sport consists of a series of competition disciplines intended 'to further develop and demonstrate lifesaving skills, fitness and motivation'.

In some nations (including the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand) there are numerous governing bodies affiliated to the ILS.

Pool events largely consist of freestyle swimming disciplines with an added rescue component.