- January 17, 2025
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The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate our great nation and the many freedoms we enjoy. But, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office warns that if you decide to drink and drive, you will lose your freedom and be taken to see new bars at the Green Roof Inn.
Starting Friday, July 2, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office will be participating in a Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort Patrol Operation. It will run through July 5, with increased emphasis on state roads including Interstate 95, U.S.1, S.R. 11, S.R. 100, and S.R. A1A.
Flagler County experienced an increase in fatal crashes and crashes with injuries last year, and the data revealed that the majority of these crashes occurred on state roads. Operation CARE focuses on increased law enforcement presence on Interstates and U.S. Highways across the state during specific high-crash periods.
Members of the FCSO Motor/Traffic Unit will conduct separate enforcement details, which will target seatbelt violations, speeding and aggressive driving. Deputies will provide an increased presence on roadways experiencing high traffic volume.
Patrol units will also be watching for impaired drivers, and the FCSO will increase patrols at beach approaches and provide a highly visible deputy presence on foot and ATV within the parking lots and on the beaches.
Another goal for this Fourth of July weekend is to reduce and prevent crime opportunities through proactive measures.
FCSO reminds residents and visitors to do some basic crime prevention strategies:
The Marine Unit will provide high-visibility patrols on the Intracoastal Waterway and canals, monitoring the waterways for boaters under the influence along with unsafe vessel operation.
“Operation CARE has been implemented to enhance safety for everyone throughout the county,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “I know the holiday weekend is exciting for many, but we ask the community to remember to follow the laws of the roadway, not drive distracted or drunk, and to help prevent becoming victims by locking your cars. We are doing our best to plan for a safe, festive holiday weekend and ask you to join us and do your part to prevent crime. Please also be mindful of how fireworks may affect your pets along with the local laws about firework use. We hope everyone has a fun and safe Fourth of July, as we celebrate America’s 245th year of independence!”
In addition to operations like CARE, the FCSO in March began Operation T.I.D.E.S., a year-long countywide traffic enforcement operation in coordination with the Florida Highway Patrol, the Bunnell Police Department and the Flagler Beach Police Department, focusing on deterring texting while driving, impaired driving and driving while distracted or exhausted.
While there is a high concentration of efforts across multiple agencies for Operation C.A.R.E., the FCSO remains vigilant 365 days a year on roadways in Flagler County.
During the Fourth of July weekend, the FCSO will be out on the roadways and waterways to ensure everyone obeys the law and does not drive or boat under the influence. Remember, drive sober or get pulled over!
