Ticket, arrest and confiscation of fireworks

St. Augustine Fire Chief Mike Arnold and Fire Marshall John Rayno are urging all Historic City News readers to keep July 4th safe and legal with a reminder of ordinances in force in the City regarding personal fireworks.

The simple rule of thumb is that if it leaves the ground or goes boom, it is illegal.

Not only is the use of such fireworks illegal, but so is possession. Anyone found to be in possession of such fireworks will be subject to citation or arrest and will have the prohibited fireworks confiscated. Violation of the ordinance is punishable by a fine up to $500, imprisonment up to 60 days or a combination of both.

This reminder is all the more critical because of the sever threat of fire throughout the state. Earlier this week, Governor Rick Scott issued a related executive order saying “I declare that the danger of wildfires continues to threaten the State of Florida with a major disaster.” The Division of Forestry estimates there are currently 310 active wildfires burning over excess of 115,000 acres. And the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners has extended its county-wide burn ban through the end of the summer.

There is no doubt this is serious, and both the St. Augustine Fire and Police Departments are taking the threat of fire seriously.

Of course, July 4th is the most popular time for fireworks displays and according to the National Fire prevention Association, far more fires are reported nationwide on Independence Day than any other. In 2008, there were an estimated 22,500 fires including 1,400 structures, 500 vehicles, 20,600 outside and other fires all resulting in $42 million in property damage.

St. Augustine has become an increasingly popular place to celebrate Independence Day making it the city’s busiest holiday of the year. The city is committed to providing a fun and safe environment for families and friends to gather to celebrate Independence Day. For complete information on the city’s July 4th display, Fireworks over the Matanzas, see www.fireworksoverthematanzas.com.

Simply put: Have a great Independence Day with friends and family, but keep it safe and legal.

Photo credits: © 2011 Historic City News contributed photograph by SJC VCB