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Supporting the Beach Warning Flag System is Part of Our Beach Safety Mission

Water Safety Program

Classification:
Partners

Purpose: Ocean Swim Safety

Beach Warning Flag System

Supporting the Beach Warning Flag System is Part of Our Beach Safety Mission

For decades, the beach warning flag system has served as one of the most important public education tools used by ocean rescue agencies to communicate surf and water conditions to millions of residents and visitors. These flags provide a simple, universally recognized way to warn beachgoers about surf conditions and to encourage safe decisions before they enter the water.

We answered the Call from the Florida Beach Patrol Chiefs Association.

When the state of Florida lost funding for this program in 2022, Eric Helstrom of Florida Beach Patrol Chiefs Association (FBPCA) looked for alternative funding for the flag program. Surfing’s Evolution and Preservation Foundation (SEPF) stepped up to support this lifesaving program.

SEPF has continued to support this initiative year after year, working in partnership with FBPCA leadership to save beach patrol agencies across Florida from having to absorb the costs associated with purchasing replacement beach warning flags.

“As President of the Florida Beach Patrol Chiefs Association, I am proud to recognize the tremendous support that Surfing’s Evolution & Preservation Foundation has provided to beach safety agencies throughout Florida,” says Eric Helstrom. “Their support ensures that agencies have the resources they need to maintain this critical public safety system.”

Beach Safety is Part of Our Mission

This ongoing commitment has had a direct and meaningful impact on water safety throughout our state. By relieving local agencies of these costs, the Foundation has allowed beach patrols to focus limited budgets on training, staffing, and equipment while ensuring that beach warning flags remain prominently displayed to educate the public and reduce preventable drownings.

“On behalf of the Florida Beach Patrol Chiefs Association and the professional ocean rescue agencies we represent, I extend our sincere gratitude to Surfing’s Evolution & Preservation Foundation for its steadfast partnership and dedication to protecting lives along Florida’s coastlines. Your investment in beach safety continues to make a lasting difference for the millions of people who enjoy our beaches each year.”

 

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The owner of the registered trademark for ENDLESS SUMMER® is Bruce Brown Films, LLC. Bruce Brown is a pioneer in the surf culture and created the classic surf documentary “The Endless Summer®”. Bruce Brown Films, LLC supports the Foundation’s goals, and has graciously allowed the Foundation to use the “Endless Summer®” name for this important fundraising and awareness effort. The Endless Summer® Florida specialty license plate,  Surfing Capital® merchandise, and Endless Summer® specialty license plate sticker were created by Surfing’s Evolution & Preservation Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) charitable organization as a revenue source to assist with our financial quest to preserve Florida Beaches. All proceeds benefit the Foundation. Endless Summer® is a registered trademark of Bruce Brown Films, LLC and is used under license. The graphic design of the surfer on the beach at sunset is a copyrighted design owned by Surfing’s Evolution & Preservation Foundation, © 2008. SURFING CAPITAL® is a registered trademark of Ron Jon Surf Shop of Fla., Inc. THE STOKED EXPERIENCE® is a registered trademark of Surfing’s Evolution and Preservation Foundation, Inc. A copy of Surfing’s Evolution & Preservation Foundation’s official registration and financial information may be obtained from the division of consumer services by calling toll-free (800-435-7352) within the state. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval or recommendation by the state. Registration no# CH41137.