COVID19: IMPORTANT UPDATES
COVID19: Important Updates
Over the last 48 hours, we have seen an extraordinary number of events and gatherings disrupted in response to COVID-19. Among those affected, the Gasparilla Film Festival and the (in person) Film Florida quarterly conference.
The growing impact of canceled or postponed events will have an impact on local business and tourism. We are confident that the City of Tampa, City of Plant City, City of Temple Terrace and Hillsborough County will continue to work with health experts to minimize the impact of COVID-19, while prioritizing the health of residents and visitors.
For our part, we are working directly with many productions to answer questions they may have, as well as to assure everyone we are still open for business. We encourage productions to continue if they can do so safely while taking additional precautions to mitigate risk.
The health and safety of cast and crew are paramount. We understand how disruptions can cause compounding difficulties for those working in the largely gig economy that film typically provides. Financial pressures can lead to risky behaviors by the production, clients and crew. Remember, your actions and decisions over the coming days can have a positive or negative impact not just on yourself but those in your immediate vicinity, as well as the community at large.
For productions and clients looking for guidance, our office will continue to provide the most up-to-date information we are able.
As of Friday, March 13, 2020, our office is still processing permits. We encourage productions to check with us directly or monitor our social media for the most up-to-date information in regards to processing status and times. Here are recommendations for upcoming shoots:
If a cast or crew member has reported symptoms of illness, including but not limited to fever, cough, or shortness of breath in the last 14 days, they should not report to set and should limit exposure with others.
If cast or crew exhibit symptoms of illness while filming, they should be released and encouraged to seek medical attention.
Cast and crew should be encouraged to stay in contact with the production following the shoot and inform them if they do become ill within 14 days of the conclusion of the shoot.
Productions should inform cast and crew of any potential exposures that may come to their attention.
Hand sanitizer should be distributed onset widely, and extra care is taken to sanitize locations and equipment.
Limit cast / crew size when possible.
Here are some additional resources to help assess your COVID-19 strategies:
CDC advice on Mass Gatherings and Events: CLICK HERE
Florida Department of Health Stats on COVID-19: CLICK HERE
Port Tampa Bay statement about protective measures: CLICK HERE
Tampa International Airport statement about protective measures: CLICK HERE
