Ocala Fire Rescue’s Fire Prevention Division is offering a dedicated phone line and email address where businesses needing help determining their new maximum capacity can inquire as they begin to reopen.
The offering comes as a means to limit fire hazards and COVID-19 spread while assisting business owners in complying with Gov. Ron DeSantis’ Executive Order 20-112.
Under that order, retail spaces and restaurants can reopen if their occupancy does not exceed 25 percent of their facility’s capacity. Although businesses have predetermined occupant loads, not all of them have that figure posted or readily available. Utilizing the Florida Fire Prevention Code, the Fire Prevention Division can assist business owners in calculating their new 25 percent maximum capacity.
For assistance, businesses within the city of Ocala can contact Capt. Anthony Ortiz at (352) 572-0380 or by email at fireprevention@ocalafl.org.
“At Ocala Fire Rescue, we are determined to do our part to help businesses champion the challenges brought upon by the occupancy restrictions as they begin to reopen,” said Ocala Fire Chief Shane Alexander. “Offering assistance in calculating the new 25 percent maximum capacity does not only support the governor’s directives, but it also promotes community risk reduction and encourages the community to remain safe.”