Florida Division of Emergency Management (DEM) officials will participate in the 2010 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Hurricane Hunter Gulf Coast Awareness Tour, a five-day tour through the Gulf Coast states. The Tour began on April 26 and visits the cities of Brownsville, Texas, Beaumont, Texas, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Pensacola, Florida and Sarasota, Florida. DEM officials will be on site at both Florida stops to help raise awareness about storm threats and the importance of preparedness.
“This Tour is an excellent opportunity to remind residents and visitors to the Sunshine State that the 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season is right around the corner,” said David Halstead, interim director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “Now is a good time to review your family’s disaster plan and supply kit and restock or recycle any necessary items.”
Hurricane specialists from the National Hurricane Center will travel with the Hurricane Hunters crew, and they will be joined by staff from emergency management offices, non-profit organizations, and local National Weather Service forecast offices. The National Weather Service in Mobile will host the Thursday Pensacola tour stop at the Gulf Coast Regional Airport. Forecasters at the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay-Ruskin will host the Sarasota tour stop at the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport on Friday.
The NOAA WP-3 Orion Hurricane Hunter turboprop aircraft is used primarily by weather scientists on research missions to study various elements of a hurricane by flying through the eye of the storm several times each flight. Throughout the morning and early afternoon, students from local schools will receive a tour of this aircraft, a featured presentation on hurricane forecasting and safety, and other specialized tours of emergency response vehicles. Tours will be open to the general public in the afternoon.
The 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season begins June 1. To GET A PLAN!, please visit www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Monday, April 26, 2010
DANGEROUS FIRE WEATHER CONDITIONS EXPECTED FOR THE NORTHERN FLORIDA PANHANDLE AND EASTERN BIG BEND AREAS TODAY AND TOMORROW
In the wake of this past weekend’s strong cold front, a dry air mass will move into Northern Florida, placing portions of the Florida Panhandle and much of the northern Peninsula in a critical wildfire risk today and tomorrow. The counties most at risk include Jefferson, Madison, Taylor, Lafayette, Hamilton, Suwannee, Columbia, Baker, Bradford, Union, Nassau, Duval, Clay and St. Johns.
“The Storm Prediction Center has placed the far northern Florida peninsula and the far eastern Big Bend in a critical wildfire risk area both today and tomorrow,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “We ask that Floridians be very careful with the use of fire and flammable materials in and outside of the home. As dry conditions continue, we can all do our part to become Firewise and stay safe.”
Strong winds combined with low humidity values will elevate the wildfire risk across much of North Florida through Tuesday. Florida’s “dry” season typically lasts through May but wildfires remain a threat in the Sunshine State year round. Some tips for homeowners to protect their home from wildfire include:
- Create a “defensible space” clear of brush 30 feet around your home.
- Prune tree limbs to a height of 15 feet near structures.
- Keep your roof and gutters free of leaves and pine needles.
- Insure your home’s street address is clearly marked for firefighters.
- Review and practice your fire escape plan.
HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED TODAY FOR GULF BEACHES FROM WALTON COUNTY EAST TO FRANKLIN COUNTY
Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers in Walton, Bay, Gulf and Franklin counties to use caution today as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected along the Gulf Coast. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Gulf of Mexico can be dangerous.
“Beachgoers and surfers should be very cautious along the Emerald Coast today,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “We strongly urge beachgoers to check the rip current outlook and stay out of the water when red flags are posted.”
A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water running perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster.
In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents.
When at the beach:
- Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
- Never swim alone.
- Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake.
- Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches. If in doubt, don’t go out.
- Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify potential hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
- Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
- Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.
If caught in a rip current:
- Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
- Never fight against the current.
- Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
- Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
- If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
- If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.
If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
- Get help from a lifeguard.
- If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
- Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
- Yell instructions on how to escape.
- Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.
Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov.
“Beachgoers and surfers should be very cautious along the Emerald Coast today,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “We strongly urge beachgoers to check the rip current outlook and stay out of the water when red flags are posted.”
A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water running perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster.
In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents.
When at the beach:
- Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
- Never swim alone.
- Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake.
- Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches. If in doubt, don’t go out.
- Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify potential hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
- Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
- Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.
If caught in a rip current:
- Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
- Never fight against the current.
- Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
- Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
- If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
- If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.
If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
- Get help from a lifeguard.
- If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
- Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
- Yell instructions on how to escape.
- Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.
Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov.
Friday, April 23, 2010
RESIDENTS URGED TO STAY ALERT AS STORM SYSTEM BRINGS POTENTIAL FOR SEVERE WEATHER ACROSS NORTHERN FLORIDA THIS WEEKEND
State and local emergency management officials are urging residents and visitors to stay alert and exercise caution as a strong and complex storm system will move east into the northern half of the state this weekend.
“The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of northern Florida in an area for an enhanced risk of severe storms on Saturday and Sunday,” said Interim Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management David Halstead. “We encourage residents and businesses to monitor this weather system this weekend and to be prepared to act if warnings are issued.”
The system will have the potential to bring one to three inches of rainfall across northern Florida, and as high as five inches in some localized areas. A moderate to high risk of rip currents along Panhandle beaches is also expected on Saturday and Sunday. Hail, isolated tornadoes, and damaging wind gusts are possible this weekend, even during the overnight hours. Residents and visitors to the state should monitor local media outlets and ensure that their NOAA All Hazards Weather Radio alert settings are turned on.
“The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of northern Florida in an area for an enhanced risk of severe storms on Saturday and Sunday,” said Interim Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management David Halstead. “We encourage residents and businesses to monitor this weather system this weekend and to be prepared to act if warnings are issued.”
The system will have the potential to bring one to three inches of rainfall across northern Florida, and as high as five inches in some localized areas. A moderate to high risk of rip currents along Panhandle beaches is also expected on Saturday and Sunday. Hail, isolated tornadoes, and damaging wind gusts are possible this weekend, even during the overnight hours. Residents and visitors to the state should monitor local media outlets and ensure that their NOAA All Hazards Weather Radio alert settings are turned on.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
The Florida Division of Emergency Management Supports FLASH's "Great Hurricane Blowout"
The Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)’s innovative “Great Hurricane Blowout” will promote a culture of hurricane-based preparedness in our state through fresh outreach methods. The final result of the program will help Floridians accomplish several objectives, including:
· Making a family plan
· Making a disaster supply kit
· Understanding safe cooking and sanitary practices without county and municipal utility services
· Passing time without electricity or the family’s ability to safely leave its home
· Mitigating the effects of storm damage on residences
· Training with various disaster-related non-profit organizations
You can help the Great Hurricane Blowout move Florida’s families “down the path to preparedness” by visiting http://www.greathurricaneblowout.org/ and pledging your support of the Blowout. Simply list your e-mail where indicated and while there, you can also learn the best practices to spread the word about the Great Hurricane Blowout through your social networking mentions via Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube. Help help spread the word about this great program by telling your friends, family and professional contacts about how the Great Hurricane Blowout is helping to ensure that all Floridians are safe during the 2010 Hurricane Season.
Join the Blowout and Breathe Easy!
· Making a family plan
· Making a disaster supply kit
· Understanding safe cooking and sanitary practices without county and municipal utility services
· Passing time without electricity or the family’s ability to safely leave its home
· Mitigating the effects of storm damage on residences
· Training with various disaster-related non-profit organizations
You can help the Great Hurricane Blowout move Florida’s families “down the path to preparedness” by visiting http://www.greathurricaneblowout.org/ and pledging your support of the Blowout. Simply list your e-mail where indicated and while there, you can also learn the best practices to spread the word about the Great Hurricane Blowout through your social networking mentions via Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube. Help help spread the word about this great program by telling your friends, family and professional contacts about how the Great Hurricane Blowout is helping to ensure that all Floridians are safe during the 2010 Hurricane Season.
Join the Blowout and Breathe Easy!
HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED FOR PALM BEACH, BROWARD AND MIAMI-DADE COUNTIES TODAY THROUGH FRIDAY
TALLAHASSEE- -Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are once again urging beachgoers in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties to use caution today through Friday as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous.
“Persistent strong onshore winds will cause an increased risk for rip currents along Florida’s Southeast Atlantic coast today through Friday,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “Area beach conditions will be very rough and we strongly urge beachgoers to check the rip current outlook and stay out of the water when red flags are posted.”
A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water running perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster.
In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents.
Beachgoers should take the following precautionary and preparedness actions:
· Swim at guarded beaches and heed to the advice of beach patrol.
· If caught in the seaward pull of a rip current do not attempt to move directly toward shore. Instead move sideways across the rip currents until the pull eases.
· If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
· Throw the rip current victim something that floats: a lifejacket, a cooler or inflatable ball.
· Yell instructions on how to escape.
· Never go into the water alone, and if you aren’t a strong swimmer, stick to shallow waters (though shallow waters can also be dangerous for weak swimmers).
· Only swim in areas with a lifeguard or strong swimmers on the beach who can keep a safe eye on you.
Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov.
“Persistent strong onshore winds will cause an increased risk for rip currents along Florida’s Southeast Atlantic coast today through Friday,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “Area beach conditions will be very rough and we strongly urge beachgoers to check the rip current outlook and stay out of the water when red flags are posted.”
A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water running perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster.
In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents.
Beachgoers should take the following precautionary and preparedness actions:
· Swim at guarded beaches and heed to the advice of beach patrol.
· If caught in the seaward pull of a rip current do not attempt to move directly toward shore. Instead move sideways across the rip currents until the pull eases.
· If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
· Throw the rip current victim something that floats: a lifejacket, a cooler or inflatable ball.
· Yell instructions on how to escape.
· Never go into the water alone, and if you aren’t a strong swimmer, stick to shallow waters (though shallow waters can also be dangerous for weak swimmers).
· Only swim in areas with a lifeguard or strong swimmers on the beach who can keep a safe eye on you.
Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov.
Monday, April 12, 2010
HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED TODAY FOR PALM BEACH, BROWARD AND MIAMI-DADE COUNTIES
TALLAHASSEE- -Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers along the Atlantic coast in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties to use caution today as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous.
“We want all residents and visitors to enjoy Florida’s beautiful beaches safely,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “By heeding the advice of local officials and lifeguards, beachgoers can reduce their chances of injury or loss of life.”
A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water running perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster.
In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents.
When at the beach:
- Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
- Never swim alone.
- Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake.
- Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches. If in doubt, don’t go out.
- Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify potential hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
- Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
- Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.
If caught in a rip current:
- Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
- Never fight against the current.
- Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
- Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
- If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
- If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.
If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
- Get help from a lifeguard.
- If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
- Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
- Yell instructions on how to escape.
- Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.
“We want all residents and visitors to enjoy Florida’s beautiful beaches safely,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “By heeding the advice of local officials and lifeguards, beachgoers can reduce their chances of injury or loss of life.”
A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water running perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster.
In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents.
When at the beach:
- Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
- Never swim alone.
- Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake.
- Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches. If in doubt, don’t go out.
- Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify potential hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
- Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
- Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.
If caught in a rip current:
- Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
- Never fight against the current.
- Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
- Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
- If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
- If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.
If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
- Get help from a lifeguard.
- If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
- Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
- Yell instructions on how to escape.
- Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED TODAY FOR FLORIDA PANHANDLE AND WESTERN BIG BEND REGIONS
TALLAHASSEE- -Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers along the Gulf coast in Walton, Bay, Gulf and Franklin counties to use caution today as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Gulf of Mexico can be dangerous.
“Rip currents can be life-threatening to anyone entering the water,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “Beachgoers and surfers along Panhandle and Western Big Bend beaches should check the rip current outlook today and remember the warning flag signs before going into the water.”
A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water running perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster.
In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents.
When at the beach:
- Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
- Never swim alone.
- Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake.
- Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches. If in doubt, don’t go out.
- Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify potential hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
- Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
- Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.
If caught in a rip current:
- Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
- Never fight against the current.
- Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
- Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
- If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
- If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.
If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
- Get help from a lifeguard.
- If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
- Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
- Yell instructions on how to escape. Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.
“Rip currents can be life-threatening to anyone entering the water,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “Beachgoers and surfers along Panhandle and Western Big Bend beaches should check the rip current outlook today and remember the warning flag signs before going into the water.”
A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water running perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster.
In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents.
When at the beach:
- Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
- Never swim alone.
- Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake.
- Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches. If in doubt, don’t go out.
- Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify potential hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
- Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
- Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.
If caught in a rip current:
- Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
- Never fight against the current.
- Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
- Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
- If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
- If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.
If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
- Get help from a lifeguard.
- If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
- Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
- Yell instructions on how to escape. Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Statement from David Halstead Regarding the 2010 Hurricane Outlook announced by Colorado State University's Hurricane Forecast Team on April 7, 2010
“With the start of the 2010 hurricane season just around the corner, the forecast of above-average seasonal activity today by Colorado State University's Hurricane Forecast Team should serve as a reminder to start preparing for hurricane season. All Floridians should ‘Get A Plan!’ and be prepared for any disaster. As Hurricane Andrew demonstrated in 1992 it only takes one hurricane to impact our great state and make it a bad season. Many forget that Andrew was the first named storm and only major hurricane of the otherwise inactive Atlantic hurricane season.
It is important that we treat all tropical systems with respect and prepare for the upcoming hurricane season with the focus on preparing to be a survivor – not a victim. I also urge you to check with a neighbor and make sure they have what they need to be prepared as well. Together, we can lessen the terrible impacts of these storms.
If you have a plan and a disaster supply kit, now is the time to review, recycle and restock for 2010. To ‘Get A Plan!’ for your family or business, go to www.floridadisaster.org today. The safety of your family depends on you taking responsibility to prepare to the best of your ability.”
It is important that we treat all tropical systems with respect and prepare for the upcoming hurricane season with the focus on preparing to be a survivor – not a victim. I also urge you to check with a neighbor and make sure they have what they need to be prepared as well. Together, we can lessen the terrible impacts of these storms.
If you have a plan and a disaster supply kit, now is the time to review, recycle and restock for 2010. To ‘Get A Plan!’ for your family or business, go to www.floridadisaster.org today. The safety of your family depends on you taking responsibility to prepare to the best of your ability.”
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