SGCVFD 501(c)(3) Purchases Emergency LED Sign for Cape San Blas
Cape San Blas presents a unique challenge for anyone needing to communicate with homeowners, seasonal renters & vacationers alike. Traditional means of delivering emergency & non-emergency information is limited. Many vacationers may not be familiar with local Facebook groups or other social media sites. Since many are here temporarily, they do not receive any Gulf County emergency-weather alerts. Many are not even able to access the internet. However, this “one-way-in & one-way-out” challenge provides a one-of-a-kind LOCATION focal point. Virtually EVERYONE entering the Cape must pass by 240 CSB Rd, where South Gulf Fire Station #1 sits.
365 days a year important messages can be communicated to all who pass by with a bright (at all times) 5ft X 8ft full-color double-sided state-of-the-art video display. It is fully programmable, FCC & UL approved, with a storm weather package included. It is safely programmable with secured Bluetooth technology, and it is wired into the Station 1 backup electric (propane-fueled) generator.
The sign was purchased from WatchFire Signs, a recognized leader in the sign industry, and was professionally installed by Sign Erectors of Dothan, AL with certified & licensed electric installation by Cates Electric of Eastpoint, FL.
We originally applied, through the Gulf County Grant Writer, for a SAFER Grant (Staffing for Adequate Fire Emergency Response) to pay for the sign. After a 10+ month wait, we were not approved for the grant due to the small size of our community. SGCVFD 501(c)(3) community non-profit organization stepped in. We recognized the importance and lifesaving value of the LED Information System. After numerous discussions, presentations, and negotiations, our Board of Directors agreed to fully fund this important community project.
Cost: $29, 937
We truly believe this was a critical and beneficial investment to help protect our community. The sign communicates the following and more:
Weather emergencies, both immediate (tornado, high winds, flooding conditions) as well as anticipated weather warnings (hurricane & tropical storms).
Electric outages, drinking water emergencies, stopped or blocked traffic ahead, fire or other emergencies ahead, or needs to divert traffic.
Future disruptions such as construction traffic, planned beach sand delivery, road closures, power line installs, etc.
Community events and education: First Aid / AED classes, smoke detector installations/battery changes, food & clothing collections, coastal gardening, understanding & existing with our local 4-legged critters, voting and voter registration, flu shots, Leave No Trace, Turtle Season, Dogs on Beach.
SGFR Staff Recruitment, new member meeting, training, open house, kids & family fire safety, meet a first responder or firefighter, use of Station 1 meeting room for community events.
SGCVFD 501(c)(3) fundraising promotion, Butt Roast pre-sale, volunteer opportunities, thanking the community.
Promote FWC: boating classes, fishing licenses & events.
Daily Beach Warming Flags, hazards, weather-impacted changes, purple flags, flag education.
County Information: Safety and emergency alerts from the Gulf County Sheriff’s Office or Gulf County Emergency Management