Tourism Officials Create Catchy Lyrics to Save Lives
The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau released two new radio commercials this summer intended to help travelers stay safe at the beach, whether at the OBX or beyond.
Says Executive Director Lee Nettles, creator of the public service announcement series:
“Rip currents are a hazard that can show up on nearly any beach in America. The challenge is that visitors are on vacation; they aren’t necessarily seeking out life or death beach safety information. With the jingles, though, we’re able to share these safety messages in a way that is engaging and memorable.”
The jingles are a throwback vibe reminiscent of the educational Saturday morning cartoon commercials. “Swim with a buddy, swim with a friend, swim with a floatie in your hand…” and “Don’t let the rip ruin your trip!” are just a couple of the takeaway lyrics intended to be easily recalled by swimmers. Said Nettles:
“We hope to get family and friends talking about beach safety before they get into the water. If we can make people aware, they’ll be better prepared for different situations.”
The new radio announcements, which are also available through social media, are part of a larger safety and awareness effort uniting several community partners. The broader effort builds on a shared theme of “Love the Beach, Respect the Ocean.” The two sixty-second public service announcements were produced in conjunction with Steven Heller and Upstream Productions, located in Asheville, North Carolina. The PSA’s are available for license and will be tagged to state that community’s name. Beach towns interested in licensing the commercials for their use are invited to contact the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau.
The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau is a lead marketing and promotional agency for The Outer Banks of North Carolina, funded by one percent of the occupancy tax and one percent of the prepared meals tax collected in Dare County. Visit the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau online at www.outerbanks.org.
Source: Outer Banks Visitors Bureau
