Capital Soup

Florida News Straight From the Source

You are here: Home / Archives for Fourth of July

Fourth of July

Attorney General Bondi’s Fourth of July Statement

Posted on

Attorney General Pam Bondi released the following statement in recognition of Independence Day:
“Two hundred and forty-one years ago, our Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence to ensure our right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Since that historic day, generations of military men and women have sacrificed everything to protect those rights. It is because of their service that we are able to enjoy this nation’s freedoms and privileges today. So this Fourth of July, as we celebrate our great democracy, let us also honor those brave Americans who have and continue to serve our country.”

Commissioner Adam H. Putnam Provides Tips for Safe Fourth of July

Posted on

Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam and the Florida Forest Service encourage Floridians to use fireworks responsibly while celebrating this Fourth of July. Since January, 2,433 wildfires have burned approximately 195,157 acres throughout Florida.
“While recent rainfall has lowered wildfire risk across the state, the potential for wildfire is always heightened when fire and sparks are present outdoors,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam. “It’s crucial for Floridians to exercise caution when enjoying fireworks, cookouts and campfires with friends and family this weekend.”
Individuals should always check local laws before using fireworks. Local fire and police departments and the State Fire Marshal’s Office can also provide guidance. Floridians celebrating with fireworks or campfires should follow these safety tips:

  • Light fireworks in a cleared area free of vegetation or dry debris.
  • Clear debris from around campfires, grills and all fire sources.
  • Remove debris from any location where fireworks could land.
  • Always have a water source available.
  • Aim fireworks away from people, homes and wooded areas.
  • Never use homemade fireworks.
  • Discard used fireworks in a bucket of water.
  • Store unused fireworks, matches and lighters out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Never leave a fire unattended and make sure it is completely out before leaving it.
  • Report any fires immediately to 9-1-1.

The Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, manages more than one million acres of public forest land while protecting homes, forestland and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfire on more than 26 million acres. To learn more about Florida Forest Service programs, visit FloridaForestService.com.
For more information about the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FreshFromFlorida.com.

FWC urges Fourth of July boaters to be careful, use beacons and enjoy Florida’s waterways

Posted on

During the Fourth of July holiday, many people take to the water to celebrate Independence Day. The warm, sunny days of summer combined with viewing fireworks puts many more boats and people on the water in close proximity to one another.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) urges boaters to use caution while boating on this busy holiday. Many boating accidents are caused by inattentiveness or improper lookout.
“Boat operators have a personal responsibility to make sure their passengers are safe and they are not creating a hazard for other boaters,” said Capt. Gary Klein, Florida’s boating law administrator. “We all expect to have a good time when we celebrate the Fourth of July. No one expects anything to go wrong, but that can all change in an instant if someone is not paying attention or is operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”
During this weekend, boaters can expect to see an enhanced law enforcement presence and increased messaging about safe boating practices.
Beginning July 1, Floridians have another great reason to purchase and register an emergency locator beacon. Gov. Rick Scott and the Florida Legislature have instituted discounted vessel registration fees for anyone who owns a recreational vessel equipped with an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon or a Personal Locator Beacon.
“For many boaters an EPRIB or PLB can make a big difference if an emergency occurs,” said Klein. “These devices send a signal via satellite to search-and-rescue agencies so rescuers can more quickly locate the boaters in need.”
More information on EPIRBs is available at MyFWC.com/Boating by clicking on “Safety and Education.”
More information on the new discounted vessel registration law can be found at the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles’ website.