Over the past 10 years, the San Diego County Toyota Dealers Association (SDTDA) has equipped city lifeguards with a fleet of vehicles for rescue and operation use.
Patrol Duty
Two San Diego Lifeguards patrolling the beach in a 4Runner from the fleet of vehicles donated by the San Diego County Toyota Dealers Association.
The milestone is a proud moment for all parties involved – one that recognizes Toyota as a notable partner committed to keeping communities safe, on and off the road.
“Over the years, we’ve committed to equipping the city of San Diego Lifeguards with the proper vehicles to keep people safe at one of the country’s most popular beach destinations,” said Ivan Mendelson, president of SDTDA. “It’s been a pleasure working with the city of San Diego to help promote beach safety and we look forward to continued success and growth in the years ahead.”
Helping Hand
Since 2011 SDTDA has provided off-road capable and durable vehicles that are built to help the lifeguards withstand sand and marine environments.
Donating fleets of vehicles, complimentary maintenance and monthly detailing isn’t all Toyota contributes to the city of San Diego. With the ongoing partnership, SDTDA continues to sponsor the Lifeguards’ Water Safety Days program, an annual summer program providing educational information on water safety information, tips and lifeguard career opportunities for beachgoers across San Diego.
“Our lifeguards have benefited tremendously from the vehicles Toyota has delivered over the past 10 years,” said James Gartland, San Diego Fire-Rescue Department lifeguard chief. “Toyota not only provides us with great trucks but also features our lifeguards in local TV and radio ads, spreading the word about the critical work our team does every day.”
The city of San Diego’s safe and rescue teams, along with members of the SDTDA, commemorated the 10-year partnership milestone on Friday, May 27, and held the season’s first “Toyota Water Safety Day” on June 4.
