The city of Sanibel reminded the community that the possession and discharge of fireworks on Sanibel is illegal. Officials encouraged the public to do its part to protect wildlife and the sanctuary island.

Ways to be a wildlife hero include:

– Leave personal fireworks at home. Possession and discharge of fireworks is not only prohibited, but loud sounds and bright lights on Florida’s beaches can have devastating effects on protected wildlife species, like sea turtle and shorebirds.

– Avoid using flashlights or illuminated cell phones and never shine light on nesting or hatchling sea turtles.

– No flash photography after dark.

– Fill in holes and level sandcastles after a visit to the beach for the day and remove all beach furniture by 9 p.m. to prevent wildlife obstacles and entrapment.

– Help teach visitors to not chase wildlife. Frequent disturbances may cause the animals to permanently abandon their home.

– Properly dispose of monofilament fishing line. For more information on how to reduce the impacts of monofilament and other fishing gear, visit www.mindyourline.org.

– Pick up all trash and manmade waste on the beach.

Violations should be reported immediately to the Sanibel Police Department at 239-472-3111.

To view the city’s Firework Prohibition Ordinance, visit https://library.municode.com/fl/sanibel/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=SPAGEOR_CH34FIPRPR_ARTIVPRFI_S34-106TI.

For more information or questions about firework prohibitions, contact the SPD.