- April 22, 2024
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The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to keep safety a priority as we celebrate another Independence Day. This year, Fourth of July looks a little bit different in Flagler County and not just because of COVID-19.
On June 24, 2020, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 140 into law making it legal for all Floridians to set off real fireworks on Fourth of July, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, unless there is a local ordinance prohibiting fireworks. Locally, that means fireworks are prohibited by ordinance in the cities of Palm Coast and Flagler Beach. If you plan on setting off fireworks, we encourage you to follow these safety guidelines:
“The safety of our residents and visitors is our number one priority,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all Flagler County public firework displays are cancelled so we know more people will be inclined to set off fireworks at home. Please be careful and follow the safety guidelines printed on the fireworks, and remember many pets become frightened by fireworks, so remember our four-legged members of our community, too. ”
Additionally, FCSO will be have an increased countywide presence and DUI enforcement in Palm Coast, Bunnell, and Flagler Beach this Fourth of July weekend. ‘Uncle Sam’ will be visible running speed patrols at various locations countywide to ensure drivers obey the speed limit. The Sheriff’s Taxi-Patrol car will also be visible in various locations. Additionally, the FCSO Marine Unit will be patrolling the intracoastal waterways and canals in order to promote boater safety and deter Boating Under the Influence (BUI).
“Our deputies will be out in full force to ensure safety on our roads and waterways,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “Celebrate freedom without losing yours! If you plan to drink, then plan to have a sober ride home. If not, you will end up with a free but expensive ‘taxi’ ride to the Green Roof Inn.”
FCSO also asks residents to drive free from distractions, buckle up and report reckless driving.
"If you see something, say something,” added Sheriff Staly. “Together we can make our roads safe for everyone. Report aggressive or reckless driving by calling 911 in an emergency, or 386-313-4911 in a non-emergency."
The FCSO also wants to remind residents that COVID-19 is still present in our community. Let’s work together to combat COVID-19 and slow the spread. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends the following:
All individuals should wear masks in any setting where social distancing is not possible.
All individuals over the age of 65 and all individuals of any age with high-risk health conditions should limit personal interactions outside of the home and take all measures to limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19.
All individuals should refrain from participation in social or recreational gatherings of more than 50 people.
For more information visit http://flagler.floridahealth.gov/
