Spring Breakers Asked To Sign Coronavirus Safety Pledge

PINELLAS COUNTY, FL — While it still may feel like winter in most of the country, Visit St. Pete/Clearwater has officially welcomed spring season with open arms.

To kick-start the much-needed fun in the sun, the destination has launched a comprehensive campaign to encourage safe and responsible travel this year. Those signing a spring break safety pledge promise they will mask up, socially distance and be patient with workers at busy beach spots.

The Spring to Safety Campaign was created to address concerns about coronavirus and tourism. Consisting of both pre-travel and in-market activities, St. Pete/Clearwater will be rewarding responsible travel behavior with surprise gifts and prizes.

Visit St. Pete/Clearwater is asking travelers to sign the Rise to Shine Pledge to show support for being safe when visiting and be entered in a chance to win the Ultimate Beach Day Getaway.The Ultimate Beach Getaway includes round-trip airfare, a four-night stay at a beachfront resort and a day in your own private cabana, fully stocked with everything you need for an unforgettable beach day experience.

The pledge is simple:

• Mask Up - When inside businesses (and outside when you can't keep a safe distance), keep your mask on unless you’re eating or drinking.
• Spread Out - Give everyone some space. Avoid crowds and stay at least 6 feet away from others.
• Wash Your Hands - Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer.
• Be Patient and Kind - Be generous and patient with service staff at hotels and restaurants – they're here to welcome you and help you enjoy your vacation.

The grand prize vacation package includes:

• four-night hotel accommodations in St. Pete/Clearwater
• two round-trip air tickets
• a $500 prepaid gift card for transportation or other travel expenses
• an eight-hour ultimate beach day experience, including transportation, a private beach cabana for two, beverage cooler with drinks, picnic lunch and snacks, Bluetooth speaker, power bank, beach bag, beach towels, snorkeling gear, sunscreen, sunglasses and hats.

Additionally, the Sunshine Steward street teams, introduced during the pandemic to encourage safe beach practices, will be roaming around popular areas and rewarding visitors who are following appropriate safety protocols.

When a street team member encounters a visitor or resident being “safe” (i.e, wearing a mask, keeping distance between other groups, etc.), the street team member will reward the visitor with a gift card to spend at a local business. Travelers can review the tips for visiting responsibly here to ensure they are following the safety guidelines.