Five Things We Learned on Patch this Week

: Living on the beaches puts people very close to one of the most beautiful ecosystems and the organizations on the beach plan to keep it that way. Havana Slackers, Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary and other businesses in John’s Pass are partnering up for the Madeira Beach Sweep, a beach cleanup on Sunday, June 5 at 9 a.m.

: Though riptides can be present at any time, stormy weather can increase the likelihood of potentially deadly currents and conditions. With Riptide Awareness Week kicking off  Jun, 5, 2011, Pinellas Beaches Patch wanted to offer information to keep you safe and informed.

Baby bird season is one of the busier times for the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary. Dozens of calls come in every day from people who have found baby birds running around their yards.

: Treasure Island is one of those beaches that’s synonymous with real fun. Numerous factors add up to make it so: impossibly wide beaches, lax alcoholic beverage regulations, enough parking and locals who know good music when they hear it. Memorial Day Weekend’s Bands on the Sand event epitomized this.

: Experts predict an active six-month season. Read along as we provide tips for home safety, how to prepare a disaster and first aid kit and provide resources for you and your family. It's all part of the Patch commitment to keep you informed and safe.