Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can submit?
Anyone age 18 and older by August 18, 2024 can enter as long as they are not a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers employee, Corps Foundation board member, or a member of their immediate households.
Can we apply in teams?
Yes! Teams of up to (4) individuals can apply. If a team is selected, the prize will be split equally between all team members. A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers employee or Corps Foundation board member can assist in giving guidance to someone creating a video, but they should not be listed as a team member on the entry. No government funds should be used when creating a video.
Are there specific storyboard requirements?
We want you to be creative in your approach! However, because of the nature of our campaign, ALL video footage of individuals (children, adults, dogs etc.) IN, ON, or NEAR the water are required to be wearing properly-fitted, life jackets designed for the particular water-recreational activity you’re showing. If your submission does not contain this, you will be automatically disqualified.
How long should the video spot be?
Each video must be 55-seconds or 25-seconds long. Should we decide to use your submission, our team will add a 5-Second Closing Card with the proper branding, making each video 60-seconds and 30-seconds respectively. If you include royalty-free background music on your video, please extend your audio for an additional 5 seconds, (making your submission a total of 60-seconds or 30-seconds) but don’t include any visuals other than a black screen in that footage.
What about music?
Any audio, music, sound effects, original music, and/or needle drop music used in your entry must be capable of being used for free in the public domain. If you're purchasing audio of any kind, you must provide written permission to the Contest Managers that they may use the audio in perpetuity without further cost or constraints.
The official rules say we can’t have brand names in our videos. Why?
Be sure to avoid brand names or logos on anything in your PSAs. For example, don't capture footage with a Nike or Apple sign or logo in the background, or a phone logo or service provider name. If your footage has prominent branding or logos that are not blurred, we will not be able to select it as a winner, since the winning entry could run as a PSA in donated media. Since the ad may run as a national PSA, we can't use any logos or brand names that don't belong to us or for which we don't have permission to use. Encourage your actors (if using them) to wear discreet, neutral clothing! Don’t let a name brand be the thing that disqualifies you.
What happens to my video if it’s not selected?
By submitting your video, you agree that your video(s) become(s) public domain and sole ownership of the video belongs to the Contest Managers. This means that your video can be used and/or edited for marketing purposes, even if you do not win. Your hard work is appreciated and it is hoped to be a valuable resource that helps promote the Life Jackets Worn…Nobody Mourns campaign.