Gas prices are on the rise as travelers get set for the Fourth of July weekend.
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration report on June 23, after six weeks of falling prices, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline rose four cents to $2.74 a gallon, five cents higher than last year.
As of June 25, AAA was reporting the national average at $2.75 a gallon. The average in Florida was $2.69. Locally, according to tampagasprices.com, prices ranged from $2.58 to $2.67.
AAA Auto Club South said June 24 that 17 percent more Americans are projected to travel this Fourth of July as compared to last year. In Florida, more than 1.5 million are expected to travel this year - a 6.2 percent increase.
"The situation in the Gulf continues to change rapidly and the long-term impact on tourism in the Gulf Coast region is still unknown," Jessica Brady, manager, AAA Public Relations, said in press release. "Currently, the majority of Florida's beaches are unaffected, beautiful and open to the public."
People have called questioning the conditions in the Gulf Coast, but no widespread cancellations have been reported, AAA said.
"Travel in the Gulf Coast region is expected to increase slightly since many travelers visit Florida for reasons other than the beaches such as golfing, theme parks, state parks, shopping, nightlife and to visit family and friends, AAA said.
"Overall, travel sentiment for Independence Day weekend is very high compared to last year, when the U.S. economy was in a very different place and Americans felt the strain of the recession," Brady said. "Optimism is high this year for Independence Day travel, as more Americans report they plan to travel this year since they stayed home last year, mainly for financial reasons."
Travel safety
The Florida Highway Patrol is urging everyone to stay safe this Fourth of July. According to statistics, July 4 is the deadliest traffic day. Local and state law enforcement will be out in force again this year. Motorists are urged to wear their seat belts, obey the speed limits and to not drink and drive. Motorist can report aggressive or impaired drivers by dialing start FHP on their cell phones.
Fireworks safety
Many people consider fireworks to be a traditional part of any Fourth of July celebration. However, most are illegal in Pinellas County. According to the county's ordinance, passed in 2003, no fireworks that project in the air or explode are allowed. Sparklers are legal.
Safety is one of the main reasons behind the ban. Injuries and fires, resulting from the use of fireworks is more commonplace than officials would like.
Even sparklers can reach temperatures of up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit.
Officials urge citizens to use extreme caution and follow basic safety recommendations.
- Read all cautions and warnings.
- Use sparklers only outdoors.
- Only those over 12 years of age should handle sparklers of any type. Many young people get burned by sparklers every year. Adult supervision is necessary at all times.
- Use fireworks as intended. Do not try to alter or combine them.
