Ignition and use of open-flame sources, including consumer fireworks and sparklers, prohibited
“As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day,” the Sarasota County Fire Department announced this week, its members are stressing to the public and visitors, “This year’s celebrations come during an active burn ban due to dry conditions and increased wildfire risk throughout our region.”
In a media advisory released on June 30 by the county’s Communications Department, the Fire Department staff pointed out, “While we understand that fireworks have long been a part of holiday traditions, residents should be aware that even a single spark can ignite dry grass, brush, landscaping, or structures and quickly lead to a dangerous fire.”
The advisory stresses, “The Sarasota County burn ban prohibits the ignition and use of open-flame sources, including consumer fireworks and sparklers. Although sparklers are often viewed as harmless, they can burn at temperatures exceeding 1,200 degrees and are capable of igniting dry vegetation and causing serious injuries.”
The burn ban has been in place since April 19, the advisory points out. It “will remain in effect until the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) falls below 500 for seven consecutive days.”
When the Fire Department announced the reimposition of the burn ban in April, the Keetch-Byram Drought Index put Sarasota County’s average between 500 and 549. On June 30, as noted on the website of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs, the county’s index average was between 550 and 599.
The June 30 Fire Department advisory adds, “We encourage residents to celebrate safely by attending professionally conducted and permitted public fireworks displays rather than using fireworks at home. Public displays are permitted and conducted under controlled conditions with appropriate safety measures in place. Our firefighters, paramedics, lifeguards, dispatchers, and public safety personnel will be on duty throughout the holiday protecting our community. You can help keep them available for true emergencies by complying with the burn ban and making safe choices.”
The advisory concludes, “On behalf of the Sarasota County Fire Department, we wish everyone a safe, memorable, and fire-free Fourth of July!”
For more information, visit https://www.scgov.net/government/emergency-services/fire-department-6090.