1. General Legal Disclaimer & Terms of Use (Website & SMI Content)

1.1 Scope and Parties

These General Legal Disclaimer & Terms of Use ("Terms") apply to your
access to and use of the website www.surfingmed.com,
related subdomains, newsletters, online content, and other information or services
that SMI makes available online (together, the "Website").

By visiting the Website, downloading or viewing any content, registering for an
account, subscribing as an affiliate, registering for events or courses, or otherwise
using our services, you confirm that you have read, understood and agree to be
legally bound by these Terms. If you do not agree to these Terms,
you must not use the Website.

1.2 Educational Purpose – No Individual Medical Advice

SMI is a non-profit foundation focused on education, research and advocacy relating
to surf medicine, surf lifesaving and aquatic safety. Unless expressly stated
otherwise, all information on the Website (including text, images, graphics,
presentations, videos, publications, podcasts, webinars, algorithms, tools, course
materials and downloads) is provided for educational and training purposes
only.

The information on the Website:

• is not medical or treatment advice;
• is not a professional diagnosis, opinion or service;
• must not be used as a substitute for consultation with a doctor,
  emergency physician, lifeguard, or other qualified healthcare professional;
• must not be treated as guidance for individual patients or specific cases.

We strongly recommend that you:

• seek medical advice from your own physician or another qualified healthcare
  professional for any diagnosis, symptoms, findings or treatment decisions; and
• complete accredited first aid, resuscitation and surf lifesaving courses
  appropriate to your environment and level of responsibility.

Using the Website does not create a doctor–patient relationship
between you and SMI, or any of its directors, contributors, authors or volunteers.

1.3 No Emergency or Rescue Service

The Website and any online tools or content offered through it are
not emergency services and are not designed for use:

• during an ongoing medical emergency;
• instead of calling local emergency numbers; or
• as a replacement for trained professional rescuers and medical providers on scene.

If you think that you or another person may be experiencing a medical emergency or
serious condition, you must immediately:

1. call the appropriate local emergency number; and
2. seek professional rescue and medical care without delay.

You should never postpone or disregard seeking professional help, or discontinue
medical treatment, because of something you read or see on the Website.

1.4 Personal Responsibility and Risk

Rescue and first aid in surf and aquatic environments can be dangerous. Rescuers
have been seriously injured and have died while attempting rescues. You are solely
responsible for:

• knowing and respecting your own limits of competence, fitness and skill;
• assessing environmental conditions, including surf, currents, weather and hazards;
• deciding whether it is safe and appropriate for you to attempt any rescue,
  intervention or technique.

You should only attempt rescues or interventions that are consistent with:

• your formal training and qualifications;
• the local laws and regulations of the country or region you are in; and
• the safety of yourself, the casualty and bystanders.

Any use of techniques or information from the Website is at
your own risk.

1.5 Emergency Numbers and Local Variations

Where the Website mentions emergency numbers, contact information or local
protocols, SMI strives to provide useful and reasonable information. However,
emergency systems and numbers:

• may change without notice;
• may differ between regions within a country; and
• may have special rules or limitations.

You remain responsible for verifying local emergency numbers and following the
instructions of local authorities. SMI does not guarantee that any emergency number
shown or mentioned on the Website is correct, complete or available at the time you
need it.

1.6 Intellectual Property

Unless we expressly state otherwise, all content on the Website—including text,
graphics, images, icons, logos, videos, algorithms, course materials and layout—is
protected by copyright and related rights owned by Surfing Medicine International
or its licensors.

Unless specifically authorised in writing by SMI:

• you may not copy, reproduce, modify, adapt, translate, distribute,
  publish, transmit, display, sell, license or otherwise exploit any part of the
  Website or its content; and
• you may not create derivative works based on the Website or its
  content.

Limited exceptions may apply to features explicitly labelled on the Website (for
example, "Share this article"), in which case the permitted scope of
sharing will be explained next to that feature.

1.7 Third-Party Links and Services

The Website may contain links to third-party websites, platforms, plug-ins or
applications (including, for example, social media or event platforms). Clicking on
these links or enabling these connections may allow third parties to collect or
share data about you. SMI does not control these third-party websites or services
and is not responsible for their content, availability, security or privacy
practices. Your use of such third-party services is at your own risk and subject to
the terms and policies of those third parties.

1.8 No Warranties

The Website and all content and services provided through it are offered on an
"as is" and "as available" basis.
To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law:

• SMI does not make any representations, promises or warranties (express or implied)
  that the medical, lifesaving or other information on the Website is complete,
  true, accurate, up to date, error free or suitable for any particular purpose; and
• SMI does not guarantee that the Website will be available at all times,
  uninterrupted or free from defects, viruses or other harmful components.

Medical, rescue and first aid knowledge evolves continually, and international
guidelines may differ. Content on the Website may become outdated and may not
reflect the latest local recommendations or regulations.

1.9 Limitation of Liability

Nothing in these Terms excludes or limits any liability that cannot be excluded or
limited under mandatory law, including liability for death or personal injury caused
by our intentional acts or gross negligence.

Subject to the previous paragraph and to the maximum extent permitted by applicable
law, Surfing Medicine International, its board members, volunteers, authors,
contributors, reviewers, developers, sponsors, partners and other persons acting on
its behalf are not liable for any loss, injury, damage, claim or
cost of any kind (including direct, indirect, special, incidental or consequential
damages) arising out of or in connection with:

• your access to or use of the Website;
• your reliance on any information contained on the Website; or
• any attempt to use or adopt any technique, algorithm or procedure described on the Website,

even if we have been advised of the possibility of such damages.

You remain solely responsible for your actions, decisions and omissions when
applying or not applying information from the Website.

1.10 Changes to the Website and to These Terms

SMI may update, modify, suspend or discontinue any part of the Website at any time,
including by:

• adding, changing or removing content or features;
• releasing new versions; or
• fixing bugs and improving performance.

We may also update these Terms from time to time, for example to reflect changes in
law, guidance, technology or our services. When we make material changes, we will
update the "Last updated" date at the top of this page and may provide an
additional notice on the Website.

If you continue using the Website after updated Terms become effective, you will be
deemed to have accepted the new version.

1.11 Governing Law and Jurisdiction

Your access to and use of the Website and these Terms are governed by and shall be
construed in accordance with the laws of the Netherlands, excluding
its conflict-of-law principles.

If you are a consumer habitually resident in the European Union, you additionally
benefit from any mandatory protections provided by the law of your country of
residence.

Any dispute arising out of or in connection with these Terms, your use of the
Website, or any non-contractual obligations connected to them shall be submitted to
the competent courts of The Hague, the Netherlands, without
prejudice to any rights you may have under mandatory consumer-protection rules to
bring claims in your local courts.

1.12 Contact

Surfing Medicine International
Van Bylandtstraat 135
2562 GB The Hague
The Netherlands
E-mail: info@surfingmed.com

© 2015–2025 Surfing Medicine International. All rights reserved.

2. Additional Terms & Conditions – Surf Life Support (SLS) Online Course

This section sets out additional terms and conditions that apply specifically to the
online Surf Life Support course ("SLS Course") provided by SMI through its
e-learning platform. These SLS Course Terms apply in addition to the general Terms
in section 1. In the event of a conflict between section 1 and this section 2 for
matters specifically relating to the SLS Course, this section 2 shall prevail.

2.1 Definitions

In these SLS Course Terms, the following terms shall have the meanings set out below:

• Agreement: any contractual relationship established between SMI and the Customer, which is governed by these SLS Course Terms.
• Content: all (digital) content or information, in whole or in part, made available by SMI on the E-learning Platform, through the Course or on the Website, including but not limited to videos, images, audio materials, texts, websites, brochures and handouts.
• Course or SLS Course: the online Surf Life Support course provided by SMI, in which SMI provides (interactive) information to Customers regarding resuscitation standards and medical care in surfer environments.
• Customer: (i) any natural person not acting in the course of a profession or business (consumer), or (ii) any natural or legal person acting in the course of a profession or business (business user), who obtains access to and participates in the Course, either by entering into an Agreement with SMI or by receiving access granted by a third party pursuant to an agreement with SMI.
• DCC: the Dutch Civil Code.
• E-learning Platform: the online learning environment used by SMI to deliver the Course, which is hosted on the website "thinkific.com" and is accessible to Customers upon creating a User Account.
• GDPR: Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (General Data Protection Regulation).
• Intellectual Property Rights: any and all intellectual property rights, whether disclosed or not, including but not limited to trademark rights, trade names, domain names, design rights, database rights, patent rights, copyrights (including all related exploitation rights), neighbouring rights, know-how, trade secrets and other rights of a similar nature, whether or not such rights are capable of registration, as well as any applications for registration.
• Party or Parties: SMI and the Customer, individually or collectively.
• Personal Data: all information relating to an identified or identifiable natural person as defined in Article 4(1) GDPR which the Customer provides when creating a User Account or otherwise participating in the Course.
• Services: all services provided by SMI related to the Course, such as providing Course information and granting access to the E-learning Platform.
• SMI: Stichting Surfing Medicine International, a foundation registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce under number 54137330, as well as any entity affiliated with SMI that has declared these SLS Course Terms applicable to an agreement.
• Terms and Conditions: these SLS Course Terms and any additional written conditions agreed between SMI and the Customer relating to the Course.
• User Account: the personal account created by the Customer for the purpose of accessing the E-learning Platform, completing the enrolment process and participating in the Course.

2.2 Applicability and Severability

1. These SLS Course Terms govern all access to and participation in the Course by Customers. They apply to any offer made by SMI relating to the Course, to any purchase of the Course by the Customer and to any Agreement concluded between the Customer and SMI, including future offers and agreements.
2. By entering into an Agreement, or accessing or participating in the Course, the Customer accepts the applicability of these SLS Course Terms. Any other general terms and conditions provided to SMI by the Customer are expressly rejected.
3. SMI shall give the Customer a reasonable opportunity to take notice of these SLS Course Terms in accordance with Article 6:234 DCC.
4. If any provision of these SLS Course Terms or the Agreement is held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, such provision shall be enforced to the maximum extent permitted by law, and the remainder shall continue in full force and effect. The Parties shall use their best efforts to replace such provision with a valid provision that most closely approximates the intent and economic effect of the invalid provision.

2.3 Amendments of the Terms and Conditions

1. SMI is entitled to unilaterally amend these SLS Course Terms at any time. Parties shall be bound by the amended terms as of the date they enter into effect.
2. SMI shall notify the Customer of any amendments at least one (1) month prior to their effective date by (i) sending a message to the email address registered in the User Account, or (ii) posting an announcement on www.surfingmed.com. Notices by e-mail take effect on the date sent; announcements take effect upon publication. It is the Customer’s responsibility to keep their Personal Data (including email address) up to date.
3. In the event of an amendment that is detrimental to the Customer, the Customer is entitled to terminate the Agreement in writing prior to the effective date of the amendments, with such termination taking effect on that date.
4. Any deviations from, additions to, limitations of and/or amendments to an Agreement and/or these SLS Course Terms requested by the Customer are only valid if expressly agreed in writing by SMI.
5. For the purposes of these SLS Course Terms, "in writing" also includes e-mail and other forms of electronic communication.

2.4 Conclusion of Agreements

1. The Customer enters into an Agreement with SMI either by purchasing the Course
   through SMI’s online store (for example via surfingmed.thinkific.com) and/or by
   creating a User Account. Offers made by SMI are non-binding. Any validity period
   or special conditions shall be explicitly stated in the offer. Once the validity
   period has expired or the special conditions are no longer met, the offer is
   deemed invalid. Upon request, SMI may issue a new offer.
2. If SMI’s offer is accepted after the validity period or after the special
   conditions expire, SMI may elect to accept such acceptance. In that case, an
   Agreement is only concluded after SMI confirms the acceptance in writing.
3. Any apparent error, omission or mistake in quotations, offers, digital data
   carriers, websites, leaflets or any other publication regarding prices or
   Course-related information shall not be binding on SMI.

2.5 Prices and Payment Terms

1. The prices applied by SMI are stated in euros and include VAT, unless explicitly stated otherwise.
2. Unless otherwise expressly agreed in writing by SMI, full payment for participation in a Course is required at the time of registration. Specific payment requirements and related terms may be provided at the time of registration, on the Course-specific web page or in the Agreement.
3. If payment is reversed or if SMI has not received payment, regardless of the cause, SMI is entitled to suspend its Services until payment has been received.

2.6 Waiver of the Right of Withdrawal

1. The Customer agrees and acknowledges that they waive their right to cancel the purchase of the Course in accordance with Article 6:230p(g) DCC.
2. The Customer agrees and acknowledges that they expressly consented to this waiver before purchasing the Course and creating a User Account.
3. The Customer agrees and acknowledges that they received confirmation of their purchase and their waiver in accordance with Article 6:230v(7) DCC.

2.7 Execution of the Course

1. The Customer acknowledges that access to the E-learning Platform is granted only after a User Account has been created. SMI will provide access to the E-learning Platform upon confirmation of the User Account and receipt of payment.
2. Account registration and participation on the E-learning Platform and in the Course is restricted to individuals 18 years of age or older who are fully able and competent to enter into the terms, conditions, obligations, affirmations, representations and warranties herein.
3. The E-learning Platform may include hyperlinks to websites or applications maintained or controlled by others. SMI is not responsible for and does not routinely screen, approve, review or endorse the contents or use of any products or services that may be offered at these websites or applications. Access to such third-party services is at the Customer’s own risk.
4. The Course is based on expert knowledge of practising doctors, paramedics and lifeguard instructors as well as Dutch guidelines. The Course aims to inform the Customer about resuscitation and medical care in surf surroundings. SMI is not an accredited organisation for resuscitation or other medical courses.
5. SMI reserves the right to modify the Course content, test questions and the point value or weight of any assignment, exam or other evaluation of progress that may be provided in connection with the Course.
6. SMI, in its sole discretion, is entitled to suspend its Services to the Customer and to terminate the Agreement prematurely if the Customer: (1) fails to make payment; (2) breaches clauses 2.8, 2.13 or 2.18.1 of these SLS Course Terms; (3) is found to be in violation of the Agreement or any Course-specific policy; (4) engages in conduct that is criminal or seriously disrupts SMI’s Services; or (5) engages in any other conduct that makes SMI consider such measures necessary.
7. In the event SMI exercises its authority under the previous clause, SMI is not obliged to provide any compensation for damages or refund of fees paid in connection with the Course and related Services. Any outstanding payment by the Customer remains due.

2.8 User Accounts and Conduct

1. By creating a User Account, the Customer represents that they are 18 years of age or older and have the authority and legal capacity to create the User Account.
2. The Customer agrees not to divulge or share access to their User Account or login credentials with any third party, unless SMI has given written permission.
3. The Customer agrees to create, use and access only one User Account and not to access the E-learning Platform using any login credentials other than their own, unless SMI has given written permission.
4. The Customer warrants that the information provided in the User Account is accurate, current and complete and complies with these SLS Course Terms, and agrees to update such information as necessary.
5. If the Customer breaches clauses 2.8.1 to 2.8.4, SMI reserves the right to terminate the Agreement, discontinue its Services and block the User Account.
6. The Customer agrees to notify SMI immediately, in accordance with clauses 2.18.2–2.18.4, upon becoming aware of or suspecting any unauthorised use of their User Account or login credentials.
7. SMI is not responsible for any loss or damage arising from unauthorised access to any User Account or login credentials, regardless of the cause.

2.9 Educational Purpose and Warranties

1. The Customer agrees and acknowledges that the information provided during the Course, which may include information concerning medical care and resuscitation standards, is provided for general educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or treat persons in distress.
2. The Customer agrees and acknowledges that the Course does not provide a substitute for an accredited physical resuscitation, lifesaving or first aid course and is not intended for practical application. Customers do not receive any certification or licence after completing the Course. Any practical use of Course information is at the Customer’s own risk.
3. The Customer agrees and acknowledges that the information provided during the Course is based on Dutch standards and that medical and resuscitation standards are country-specific. It is the Customer’s responsibility to verify whether Dutch standards are compliant with the medical and resuscitation standards in their own jurisdiction.
4. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the E-learning Platform, Course and any information, products or Services therein or obtained thereby are provided "as is" without warranty of any kind (express, implied or otherwise), including any implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose or non-infringement.
5. SMI does not warrant that the E-learning Platform will operate in an uninterrupted or error-free manner or that it is free of viruses or other harmful components.
6. Without limiting the foregoing, SMI does not warrant that (a) the Course and related Services will meet the Customer’s requirements, expectations or intended purposes; (b) the E-learning Platform will be uninterrupted, timely, secure or error-free; (c) the information obtained through the Course will be accurate, complete, current, error-free, secure or reliable; or (d) any defects will be corrected.
7. SMI does not make representations regarding the Customer’s ability to transmit and receive information from or through the E-learning Platform, and the Customer acknowledges that access may be impaired.
8. The Customer acknowledges and agrees that the warranty disclaimers reflect a reasonable and fair allocation of risk and are essential to SMI’s willingness to make the E-learning Platform and Course available.
9. For the purposes of the warranty disclaimers, SMI includes its current and former directors, officers, employees, agents, affiliates, representatives and any other persons or entities acting on its behalf.
10. Certain jurisdictions do not permit the exclusion or limitation of implied warranties. If mandatory consumer protection laws in such jurisdictions apply, some or all of the warranty disclaimers may not apply to that Customer.

2.10 Limitation of Liability

1. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, SMI is not liable for any indirect damages, whether foreseeable or unforeseeable, including consequential damages, delay damages, loss of profits and loss of revenue, whether based in contract, tort, statutory law or otherwise.
2. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, SMI is not liable for any damage resulting from incorrect or incomplete information, recommendations or advice provided in the context of the Course, including through the E-learning Platform, Course materials or any other document or Service related to the Course.
3. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, SMI is not liable for any loss, damage, injury or death caused to third parties as a result of acts or omissions of the Customer or any third party (such as sub-licensees), including misuse or misapplication of the E-learning Platform and/or Course materials, or actions taken based on information provided in the Course. Nothing in this clause limits liability where such exclusion is prohibited by mandatory law.
4. SMI’s total cumulative liability to the Customer arising out of or related to the Agreement, the Course or any other Service shall not exceed the greater of (a) the total amount of Course fees received by SMI from the Customer (or a third party on the Customer’s behalf) in the twelve (12) months preceding the event giving rise to the damages, or (b) the amount actually paid out to SMI by its insurer. Under no circumstances shall SMI’s liability exceed the amount paid by its insurer.
5. The limitations in this clause do not apply where the damage results from intent or gross negligence (in Dutch: opzet or grove roekeloosheid) on the part of SMI or its directors, officers or other persons in a managerial position responsible for the relevant act or omission.
6. Any right to claim compensation is subject to the obligation to report such damage in accordance with clauses 2.18.2 and following, no later than six (6) months after the event giving rise to the damages, or within six (6) months after the moment the damage reasonably could have been discovered. Notifications must clearly specify the damage suffered.
7. Employees, contractors, agents, representatives or any other subordinates of SMI are not authorised to make statements regarding SMI’s liability.
8. The limitations of liability reflect a reasonable and fair allocation of risk and are essential to SMI’s willingness to make the Course and E-learning Platform available. Each limitation is intended to be separately enforceable.
9. For the purposes of these limitations, SMI includes its current and former directors, officers, employees, agents, affiliates, representatives and any other persons or entities acting on its behalf.
10. Certain jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of certain damages. If compulsory laws of such jurisdictions apply, some or all of the above exclusions or limitations may not apply and the Customer may have additional rights.

2.11 Indemnification

1. Customers agree to indemnify and hold harmless SMI from any and all claims,
   liabilities, damages, losses and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees)
   arising out of: (a) the Customer’s use or attempted use of the E-learning
   Platform or Course in violation of the Agreement or these SLS Course Terms; or
   (b) the Customer’s violation of any law or rights of any third party.
2. For the purposes of this indemnification, SMI includes its current and former
   directors, officers, employees, agents, affiliates, representatives and any other
   persons or entities acting on its behalf.

2.12 Force Majeure

1. Parties are not obliged to perform any obligation under the Agreement if they are prevented from doing so as a result of force majeure as defined in Article 6:75 DCC.
2. Any circumstance beyond the control of SMI that hinders the fulfilment of its
   obligations shall be considered force majeure and releases SMI from those
   obligations. Such circumstances include, but are not limited to, strikes within
   SMI, prolonged outages at suppliers (such as Thinkific), bankruptcy of suppliers,
   cybercrime, war or terrorism, natural disasters, power or internet failure,
   governmental regulations and pandemics.
3. If a force majeure situation lasts longer than three (3) months, either Party may terminate the Agreement affected by the force majeure situation without the Customer being entitled to compensation.

2.13 Intellectual Property

1. All Intellectual Property Rights developed and/or applied by SMI in the Course, the E-learning Platform and in the performance of its Services, including Content, models, methodologies, materials, software and algorithms, are and shall remain the exclusive property of SMI.
2. All digital content and information made available in the context of the Course is intended solely for the Customer’s personal, non-commercial use. Without SMI’s express prior written consent, it is not permitted to store, archive, reproduce, distribute, modify, license, disclose or make available such Content to third parties or create derivative content or data from it.

2.14 Privacy Protection

1. SMI commits to comply with applicable Dutch and European laws and regulations concerning privacy and data protection, including the GDPR and the Dutch GDPR Implementation Act, when processing Personal Data.
2. SMI shall not retain Personal Data longer than necessary for the purposes for which it is processed, unless a statutory retention obligation applies. If a Customer objects to the use or processing of their Personal Data by SMI, such processing shall cease and the Personal Data shall be deleted, unless a statutory retention obligation applies. The Customer acknowledges that this may result in deletion of their User Account and loss of access to the E-learning Platform.
3. The Customer acknowledges that they have read and understood the Privacy Policy of SMI as set out in section 3 of this page. The Privacy Policy is also available at www.surfingmed.com – Privacy Policy.
4. The Customer acknowledges and agrees that SMI may use services and products of third parties, such as Thinkific, to provide the Course and related Services. Privacy statements and/or other terms and conditions of those third parties may therefore apply. It is the Customer’s responsibility to read and understand such terms.

2.15 Complaints Procedure

1. Complaints regarding the E-learning Platform, the Course or related Services must be submitted in writing by the Customer to SMI in a timely manner in accordance with clauses 2.18.2–2.18.4.
2. The notice of default must contain a clear and detailed description of the complaint.

2.16 Entire Agreement

1. These SLS Course Terms, together with the Privacy Policy, SMI’s Website information and the order confirmation, constitute the entire Agreement between the Customer and SMI with respect to the Course, unless a separate written agreement specifically governing the Course has been executed.
2. The Agreement supersedes all prior agreements, understandings and representations, both written and oral, between the Customer and SMI with respect to the Course.
3. Some additional terms applicable to registration for the E-learning Platform or
   participation in the Course may be provided at the time of registration or on the
   Course-specific web pages. These may include, among other things, terms and
   privacy statements of third parties relating to the User Account. Registration
   and participation are subject to the Customer’s agreement to those additional
   terms.

2.17 Governing Law and Jurisdiction

1. Customers agree that the Agreement and any claim or dispute arising out of or relating to it will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Netherlands, excluding its conflict-of-law principles.
2. Customers agree that all such claims and disputes will be heard and resolved exclusively in the District Court of The Hague (Den Haag), located in the province of Zuid-Holland, the Netherlands.
3. For this purpose, the Customer consents to the personal jurisdiction of this court and waives any objection to such proceedings, including defences or objections of lack of jurisdiction, venue or inconvenience of forum.

2.18 Other Clauses

2.18.1 Assignment

SMI may freely transfer or assign any portion of its rights or delegate its
obligations under the Agreement. The Customer is not entitled to transfer or
assign any portion of its rights or delegate its obligations under the Agreement to
a third party without SMI’s prior written consent; any attempted transfer or
assignment without such consent shall be void.

2.18.2 Notices by the Customer

Any mandatory notification to SMI by the Customer under these SLS Course Terms shall follow the procedures below.

2.18.3 Method of Notification

The Customer shall send notifications to SMI: (i) by registered electronic mail to
osls@surfingmed.com; or (ii) by personal
delivery, overnight courier, or registered or certified mail to:

Stichting Surfing Medicine International
Van Bylandtstraat 135
2562 GB Den Haag
The Netherlands

Notices provided by personal delivery are effective immediately. Notices provided
by overnight courier or registered electronic mail are effective one business day
after being sent. Notices provided by registered or certified mail are effective
seven business days after being sent.

2.18.4 Updates to Contact Details

SMI may update the e-mail address or physical address for notices by posting an
announcement on www.surfingmed.com. It is
the Customer’s responsibility to verify whether the contact details have been
updated.

3. Privacy Policy – Stichting Surfing Medicine International

3.1 Introduction

Our non-profit foundation Stichting Surfing Medicine International
("SMI", "we", "us" and
"our") is committed to the protection of your privacy and the
confidentiality of your personal data. This Privacy Policy explains which personal
data we collect and process, for what purposes, how long we retain this data, what
your rights are and how you can contact us.

This Privacy Policy is drafted in accordance with the General Data Protection
Regulation (GDPR) and uses the terms and definitions set out in
the GDPR.

Overview of Sections

1. Processing of personal data: categories, purposes and legal bases
2. Retention periods
3. Transfer of personal data to third parties
4. Security
5. Third party links and plug-ins
6. Your rights
7. Cookies
8. Changes to this Privacy Policy
9. Questions and contact details

3.2 Processing of Personal Data: Categories, Purposes and Legal Bases

Personal data are data that can be used to directly or indirectly identify a
person. SMI collects personal data in various ways, for example when you use our
services and products (such as registering as an affiliate, following an online
course, attending a live event or contacting us) or when third parties process
personal data on our behalf. Below we describe the main situations in which SMI
processes personal data, the categories of data involved, the purposes of
processing and the applicable legal bases.

3.2.1 Affiliates with a Subscription to Surfingmed

If you register or subscribe on the SMI website as an affiliate individual or organisation, we process:

• Contact details: first and last name, (business) e-mail address, postal address and zip code.
• Account details: username and password.
• Payment data: payment method (processed via Stripe or PayPal) and billing details.

We process these personal data because this is necessary for the performance of an
agreement or for the legitimate interests pursued by SMI. The purposes are:

• to enter into and execute an agreement to provide our services to subscribed affiliates;
• to provide access to subscribed content on the SMI website;
• to invoice the purchased subscription; and
• to maintain a business relationship with our affiliates.

Where we rely on legitimate interests as a legal basis, SMI assesses in advance
whether the impact on your interests, rights and freedoms overrides SMI’s
legitimate interests. If you wish to receive further information on this balancing,
please contact us (see paragraph 3.9).

3.2.2 Participants of Online Courses

If you register for one of our online courses (such as the Surf Life Support online course), we process:

• Contact details: first and last name, e-mail address.
• Payment data: payment method (processed via Stripe or PayPal) and billing details.

We process these personal data because this is necessary for the performance of an
agreement. The purposes are:

• to enter into and execute an agreement to provide our online course to you; and
• to provide access to the content of the online course on the Thinkific platform or other e-learning platform used by SMI.

3.2.3 Participants of Live Events or Live Courses

If you attend a live event, such as the World Conference Surfing Medicine, or
participate in a live course, such as the Advanced Surf Life Support or Basic Surf
Life Support course, we process:

• Contact details: first and last name, (business) e-mail address, telephone number, postal address, zip code, company name (if applicable).
• Event-related data: registration, attendance and participation information.
• Payment data: payment method (processed via Stripe or PayPal) and billing details.

We process these personal data because this is necessary for the performance of an
agreement or for the legitimate interests pursued by SMI. The purposes are:

• to enter into and execute an agreement to provide you with access to our live event or live course;
• to invoice the attended live event or live course; and
• to maintain a business relationship with participants.

Where we rely on legitimate interests, we perform the balancing test described
above. You can request more information using the contact details in paragraph 3.9.

3.2.4 Participants of Research and Course Evaluations

If you have followed an online or live course provided by SMI, we may invite you to
take part in research projects or course-evaluation surveys. In that context we
process:

• Contact details: first and last name, e-mail address.
• Course data: details of the course attended, completion status and test scores.
• Survey responses: answers to evaluation questions, free-text feedback and any optional demographic information you choose to share (for example age range, surfing experience or medical background).

We process these personal data based on your consent or on SMI’s legitimate
interests. The purposes are:

• to evaluate our courses and teaching methods; and
• to conduct research projects relating to surf lifesaving and first aid education.

Research results are anonymised and personal data are not included in published
reports. You can withdraw your consent at any time by contacting us (see
paragraph 3.9). Where we rely on legitimate interests, we perform the balancing
test described above.

3.2.5 Receiving the SMI Newsletter

If you sign up for the SMI newsletter, we process:

• Contact details: first and last name, e-mail address.

We process these personal data based on your consent. The purposes are:

• to send newsletters; and
• to send information and offers about SMI courses, events and services.

You can withdraw your consent to receive our newsletter at any time. Each
newsletter includes an unsubscribe link. You may also unsubscribe by contacting us
(see paragraph 3.9).

3.2.6 Visiting Our Website and Contacting SMI

If you visit our Website or contact SMI (for example via a contact form or e-mail),
we may process:

• Contact details: first and last name, e-mail address and other information you provide.
• Correspondence: e-mail messages, telephone notes and other communications.
• Technical data: IP address and other technical information about the device used to visit the Website.
• Cookies: technical and functional cookies. For more information, see paragraph 3.7.

We process these personal data because this is necessary for the legitimate
interests pursued by SMI. The purposes are:

• to enable the proper functioning and security of our Website;
• to prevent misuse of our services and, if necessary, to investigate offences; and
• to provide law-enforcement authorities with information necessary for criminal prosecution in the event of an attack on our information-technology systems.

Where we rely on legitimate interests, we perform the balancing test described
above. You can request more information using the contact details in paragraph 3.9.

3.3 Retention Periods

SMI will not retain your personal data for longer than necessary for the purposes
described in this Privacy Policy. In some cases we are required to retain personal
data for a longer period to comply with legal obligations (for example tax or
accounting requirements) or because of an (expected) dispute or legal proceedings.

To determine the appropriate retention period, we consider the amount, nature and
sensitivity of the personal data, the potential risk of harm from unauthorised use
or disclosure, the purposes of processing and whether these purposes can be
achieved by other means, as well as applicable legal, regulatory, tax, accounting
or other requirements.

If you would like more information about specific retention periods that apply to
your personal data, please contact us using the details in paragraph 3.9.

3.4 Transfer of Personal Data to Third Parties

SMI uses services of the following third parties (among others):

• Thinkific – to provide our online courses to participants.
• WordPress and MemberPress – to provide affiliates with access to subscribed content and to manage memberships.
• SurveyMonkey – to evaluate our courses and conduct research.
• Mailchimp – to send newsletters and mailings.
• Eventbrite – to register for live events and courses.
• Ninja Forms or similar form tools – to register for events and courses or to contact us.

SMI only shares personal data with these parties when it is necessary. These
parties are required to treat your data confidentially and to comply with
applicable data protection laws. They are also obliged to implement appropriate
technical and organisational measures to protect your data. Where necessary, we
have entered into data-processing agreements or other contractual arrangements with
these parties.

Some of these parties are located outside the European Economic Area (EEA) or store
data on servers outside the EEA. The transfer of personal data outside the EEA is
only permitted if specific conditions are met. Such transfers may be based on an
adequacy decision of the European Commission or on appropriate safeguards, such as
standard contractual clauses.

If your personal data are transferred to a country outside the EEA for which no
adequacy decision applies, SMI relies on appropriate transfer mechanisms under the
GDPR to ensure an adequate level of protection. If you wish to receive further
information about these mechanisms or obtain a copy of relevant safeguards, please
contact us using the details in paragraph 3.9.

3.5 Security

SMI has implemented appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect
your personal data against loss, misuse, unauthorised access, disclosure,
alteration and destruction. We restrict access to your personal data to authorised
individuals and third parties who require it for legitimate business purposes and
who are bound by confidentiality obligations.

3.6 Third Party Links and Plug-ins

Our Website may contain links to third-party websites, plug-ins and applications,
including (for example) Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, and
Jetpack/WordPress features. Clicking on these links or enabling these connections
may allow third parties to collect or share data about you. We do not control these
third-party websites and are not responsible for their privacy practices. When you
leave our Website, we encourage you to review the privacy policy of every website
you visit.

3.7 Your Rights

Under the GDPR you have a number of rights with regard to your personal data and
the processing thereof, including:

• The right of access – to obtain confirmation as to whether or
  not personal data concerning you are being processed, and, where that is the
  case, access to the personal data and additional information.
• The right to rectification – to have inaccurate personal data
  corrected or incomplete personal data completed.
• The right to erasure – in certain cases, to request deletion of
  your personal data (for example when the data are no longer necessary for the
  purposes for which they were collected, when you withdraw your consent or when
  the data have been unlawfully processed).
• The right to restriction of processing – in certain cases, to
  obtain restriction of processing of your personal data (for example because you
  contest the accuracy of the data).
• The right to data portability – to receive the personal data you
  have provided to SMI in a structured, commonly used and machine-readable format
  and to transmit those data to another controller, where the processing is based
  on consent or on a contract and is carried out by automated means.
• The right to object – to object at any time to processing of
  your personal data based on SMI’s legitimate interests, in which case SMI will no
  longer process your data unless it demonstrates compelling legitimate grounds
  that override your interests, rights and freedoms or where processing is required
  for the establishment, exercise or defence of legal claims.
• The right to object to direct marketing – where personal data
  are processed for direct marketing purposes, you may object at any time and SMI
  will no longer process your personal data for such purposes.
• The right not to be subject to a decision based solely on automated
  processing (including profiling) that produces legal effects concerning
  you or similarly significantly affects you.
• The right to withdraw consent at any time where processing is
  based on your consent. Withdrawal of consent does not affect the lawfulness of
  processing before the withdrawal.

These rights are not absolute. In some cases SMI may not be able to (fully) comply
with your request, for example if this would conflict with legal retention
obligations or the rights and freedoms of others.

If you wish to exercise any of these rights, please contact us using the contact
details in paragraph 3.9. In principle, we will provide the requested information
free of charge and within one month. That period may be extended by two further
months if necessary, taking into account the complexity and number of requests. If
we cannot comply with your request, we will explain why.

In addition to these rights, if you are dissatisfied with the way we process your
personal data or handle your request, you have the right to lodge a complaint with
the Dutch Data Protection Authority (Autoriteit Persoonsgegevens),
Postbus 93374, 2509 AJ Den Haag, the Netherlands. For more information, please see

the website of the Autoriteit Persoonsgegevens.

3.8 Cookies

A cookie is a small text file that is placed on your device when you visit our
Website. SMI uses technical and functional cookies to ensure the most efficient and
secure use of the Website. These cookies are necessary for the proper functioning
of the site.

You can manage your cookie preferences and block cookies through your browser
settings. Please note that disabling certain cookies may affect the functionality
and user experience of the Website. For more information about cookies and how to
manage your preferences, please refer to our separate Cookie Policy, available on
our Website.

3.9 Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We therefore recommend that
you consult it regularly so that you are aware of any changes. We will notify you
of significant changes, for example changes in the purposes of processing or in the
way you can exercise your rights, by publishing an updated version on the Website
and, where appropriate, by additional notice (for example by e-mail or site
banner).

This Privacy Policy was last amended on 5 December 2025.

3.10 Questions and Contact Details

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or about how we process your
personal data, please contact us at:

E-mail: privacy@surfingmed.com
Telephone: +0049 172 860813 (international format)
Postal address:
Stichting Surfing Medicine International
Van Bylandtstraat 135
2562 GB The Hague
The Netherlands

For other queries related to SMI, please visit our Website:
www.surfingmed.com.

© 2015–2025 Surfing Medicine International. All rights reserved.