Recently, Florida Governor Rob DeSantis signed Senate Bill 140 into law which allows for fireworks in Florida on three holidays: Fourth of July, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.  In an effort to enhance safety of potential 4th of July holiday celebrations by residents and island visitors, the UCFRD has decided to provide coordinated monitoring of fireworks activities under the following guidelines. To be absolutely clear, the UCFRD is not encouraging or sponsoring any fireworks display or use. However, we are simply attempting to work in cooperation with the public to provide a solution which recognizes the right of the public to celebrate and yet provides a measure of safety and monitoring to prevent any resulting fires or unsafe activities which would pose a public safety issue.

• Fireworks may only be discharged between Dusk and 11:00 pm on July 4, 2020, at the east end of the airstrip.
• Discharge of fireworks outside of this authorized time window is illegal and subject to enforcement by Law Enforcement agencies.
• Participants and spectators must follow safe personal distancing practices.
• UCFRD will stage fire equipment and personnel to monitor for any fire or safety events.
• Only civilian grade fireworks may be discharged (no commercial grade fireworks).
• Persons wishing to discharge fireworks during the event will be logged and devices surveyed by UCFRD staff.
• Civilians wishing to discharge fireworks assume ALL liabilities and must follow all manufacturers’ instructions.
• Authority and enforcement will be drawn from the state Fire Marshal’s authority and guidelines, Lee County relevant statutes, and ordinances, as well as the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) of the Upper Captiva Fire & Rescue District.
• Anyone refusing to comply with UCFRD orders will be subject to removal from the event. Any issues related to the decision will be turned over to Law Enforcement.
• The event will be cancelled due to inclement weather, unfavorable winds, or other unforeseen factors that place the community at risk.
• The event will be halted by any UCFRD staff witnessing safety issues.
• All spent fireworks will be collected by the owner once discharged. UCFRD will ensure that all devices are rendered inert and safe by immersion in water overnight.
• All spent ordinance will be then removed from the site and disposed of properly.
• UCFRD will provide trash receptacles and will aid in picking up any remaining trash at the end of the event.

We are counting on responsible and safe conduct from any participants. Please be respectful and considerate of others while enjoying the holiday.

Sincerely,

Chief Jason M. Martin, NREMTP