- Governor's Lifesaving Award incidents must have occurred in Iowa between January 1 of the previous year and June 15 of the current year. However, other incidents not occurring within this time period may be eligible for an Outstanding Service Award. The deadline for submitting nominations is June 15.
- Nominees should not be professionally trained in lifesaving techniques. Examples: firefighters, law enforcement officers, doctors, nurses, lifeguards, water safety directors, or first aid instructors (unless they are retired from those positions).
- An individual is not eligible if the life saved is that of his/her immediate family, as well as parents, grandparents, and children, but may be eligible for the Governor’s Outstanding Service Award.
- Must have occurred within Iowa.