July 8, 2022
Village of Palmetto Bay
Since the 1990's, Golden Rule Seafood restaurant has been a staple in our community. The fish market and restaurant are popular for their quality and service. News of the tiki hut fire earlier this week shocked and saddened not only the family who owns it, but also their staff and the community at large.
The incident occurred on July 4th as most Americans were celebrating Independence Day with food, drinks and fireworks, including the Village of Palmetto Bay. Our community has celebrated July 4th for 7 years now. This year was particularly important for two reasons; it was the first time in two years that residents were able to gather again and we were celebrating Palmetto Bay’s 20th Anniversary. It was a great event and folks enjoyed themselves in the company of family, friends and neighbors.
The tiki hut fire occurred minutes after the conclusion of the Village’s event. An investigation ensued to identify the possible cause of the fire. That investigation, which was completed by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, revealed that the fire was not intentional and that the probable cause was an ember from a firework that was lit in the area of the Golden Rule Restaurant and dropped down onto the tiki hut palm fronds. The Village of Palmetto Bay’s fireworks display was ruled out as the cause of the fire.
It is important for residents to know that the Village’s fireworks display is planned and executed by a professional pyrotechnics company. Permits for the display are required to show conformity to the safety standards defined by the Miami Dade Fire Rescue Fire Prevention Bureau. Every precaution is taken to ensure the safety of the eventgoers and the properties surrounding the fireworks launch area, including having a Fire Marshall onsite during the launch. Fireworks used were limited to a 400 ft. fallout area. The distance from the Village’s fireworks site to the Golden Rule Seafood restaurant is estimated to be between 1,300 and 1,600 feet. Additionally, the Village’s fireworks show ended 17 minutes prior to the start of the tiki hut fire.
We are thankful that no one was injured during the fire and are hopeful that the owners will be able to rebuild the famous outdoor area, as we’d like to enjoy Golden Rule Seafood for many decades to come.
Remember that the indoor restaurant and fish market are open for business. Let’s continue to show our support to the Golden Rule Seafood family!
#PalmettoBayProud #GoldenRuleSeafood