STATE OFFICIALS URGE SOUTH AND EAST CENTRAL FLORIDA RESIDENTS TO PREPARE TODAY FOR ANTICIPATED IMPACTS FROM TROPICAL STORM NICOLE

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging residents and visitors in South and East Central Florida to be extremely cautious when using area roadways and when near local canals, rivers, and other water bodies as rain bands from Tropical Storm Nicole affect the area both today and tomorrow. The State Emergency Operations Center will return to a Level 3 activation effective 1 p.m. today, but will continue to monitor and support counties that may be impacted.

“Though the system has now been named Tropical Storm Nicole, the official forecast track keeps the center of the storm east of Florida, with no anticipated landfall,” said David Halstead, Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “South and East Central Florida residents should prepare for heavy rainfall and possible flooding from this system.”

There is also the potential for isolated tornadoes and gusty winds. All residents and visitors should remember to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” when approaching a flooded roadway, as only six inches of moving water can cause drivers to lose control of a vehicle.

All Tropical Storm Watches and Warnings for the state of Florida have been discontinued. However, a Flood Watch remains in effect for Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties through 8 p.m. tonight. There is also a Flood Watch in effect for Indian River, St. Lucie, Martin, Okeechobee, Brevard, Osceola, Orange, and Seminole counties through 5 p.m. today.

To avoid getting caught in a flood, follow these safety tips:

- A NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio is one of the best ways to receive warnings from the National Weather Service. Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio or your favorite news source for vital weather-related information.
- If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. Do not enter areas subject to flooding, including: dips, low spots, canals, ditches, etc.
- Avoid already flooded areas, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
- Road beds may be washed out under flood waters. NEVER drive through flooded roadways.
- Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.
- Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

SOUTH FLORIDA RESIDENTS URGED TO USE CAUTION AS TROPICAL DEPRESSION 16 BRINGS HEAVY RAIN AND THE POTENTIAL FOR FLOODING

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging residents and visitors in the South Florida region to use extreme caution near local canals and rivers and on area roadways as Tropical Depression 16 is forecast to impact the area today and tomorrow. The system will likely bring the threat for heavy rainfall and flooding and the National Hurricane Center’s Hurricane Hunter aircraft is scheduled to investigate the system this afternoon to determine if a tropical storm has formed. The State Emergency Operations Center is activated to a Level 2 or partial activation to support counties that may be impacted.

“Though this system is unlikely to develop into a hurricane, it is important to remember that a storm doesn’t have to be a hurricane to cause loss of life and devastating property damage,” said David Halstead, Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “It is vital that residents and visitors in South Florida remember the phrase “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” when approaching a flooded roadway and heed all warnings from the National Weather Service and local officials.”

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for the Florida coast from Jupiter Inlet south to East Cape Sable and for all of the Florida Keys. A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area within 36 hours. A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for areas north of Jupiter Inlet to Sebastian Inlet and north of East Cape Sable to Chokoloskee, Florida. A Tropical Storm Watch means that tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area within 48 hours.

A Flood Watch is in effect until 2 p.m. on Wednesday for Broward, Collier, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach and mainland Monroe counties. A Flood Watch means that there is a potential for flooding based on current forecasts. Residents should monitor forecasts and be alert for possible flooding conditions.

To avoid getting caught in a flood, follow these safety tips:

- A NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio is one of the best ways to receive warnings from the National Weather Service. Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio or your favorite news source for vital weather-related information.
- If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. Get out of areas subject to flooding, including dips, low spots, canals, ditches, etc.
- Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
- Road beds may be washed out under flood waters. NEVER drive through flooded roadways.
- Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.
- Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED THIS WEEKEND FOR CENTRAL AND SOUTHEAST FLORIDA BEACHES

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers along the Atlantic coast from Volusia County south to Miami-Dade County to use caution this weekend as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected. There is also a moderate risk of rip currents for beaches from Nassau to Flagler counties. When red flags are flying, beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous.

“Persistent onshore winds and large ocean swells will cause a high risk of dangerous rip currents along Central and Southeast Florida beaches this weekend,” Deputy State Meteorologist Michelle Palmer said. “We strongly urge beachgoers to heed local officials’ warnings and stay out of the water where red flags are flying.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs 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. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

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. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
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.

Follow safe boating practices:
Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
File a float plan at your marina.
Thunderstorms and weather related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and 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/.

FLORIDA EMERGENCY MANAGERS ENCOURAGE ALL RESIDENTS AND VISITORS TO MONITOR TROPICAL DEVELOPMENTS THIS WEEKEND

Division of Emergency Management (DEM) officials are encouraging Florida residents and visitors to closely monitor the progress of the current tropical system in the Caribbean Sea and to update their family disaster plans and supply kits. No official forecasts place Florida in the path of any tropical systems at this time, but favorable conditions for rapid tropical development and strengthening do exist in the region.

“Though none of the current tropical systems are a threat to Florida, they have the potential to organize and intensify quickly,” said Florida Division of Emergency Management Director David Halstead. “Our team will closely monitor the active tropical situation in the Caribbean Sea and take any necessary preparatory steps to protect Floridians. I strongly encourage everyone to follow this storm closely through the weekend and to take this opportunity to review and update their family and business disaster plans and supply kits.”

Based on historical trends, September is among the most active times in the Atlantic Hurricane Season. Florida already experienced a tropical impact in July, when Tropical Storm Bonnie made landfall in the Florida Keys and parts of South Florida. While no significant injuries or damage to infrastructure were reported as a result of that system, the storm should serve as a reminder that all Floridians should develop a disaster survival plan and maintain an emergency supply kit.

“As September ends, tropical systems are more likely to form and develop quickly in the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, resulting in less preparation time for the Gulf States,” said Deputy State Meteorologist Michelle Palmer. “Floridians should remember the damage caused by Hurricane Wilma in 2005, a late-season system that after gaining Tropical Storm status in the Caribbean reached Category 5 Hurricane strength within 24 hours.”

The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 through November 30. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and 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/.

CONTINUED HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED THIS WEEK FOR ALL OF FLORIDA’S EAST COAST BEACHES

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are again urging beachgoers along the Atlantic coast from Nassau County south to Miami-Dade County to use caution as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected. There is also a High Surf Advisory in effect in Nassau, Duval, St. Johns, Flagler, Volusia, Brevard, Indian River, St. Lucie and Martin counties for large waves of five to nine feet. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous.

“Beachgoers and surfers along the entire Florida East coast should be very cautious as strong onshore winds in combination with lingering ocean swells from distant Hurricane Igor may produce dangerous surf conditions for much of this week,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “Numerous rescues were reported over the weekend along Florida’s Atlantic coast 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 that runs 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. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

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. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
- Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
- Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
- Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
- Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
- 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.

Follow safe boating practices:
- Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
- Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
- Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
- Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
- File a float plan at your marina.
- Thunderstorms and weather related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts.

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED THIS WEEKEND FOR ALL OF FLORIDA’S EAST COAST BEACHES

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers along the entire Atlantic coast from Nassau County south to Miami-Dade County to use extreme caution this weekend as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected Friday through Sunday due to ocean swells caused by distant Hurricane Igor. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous. Large waves offshore will also be dangerous for boaters.

“Area beach conditions will be rough and rip currents can be life-threatening to anyone entering the water along Florida’s East Coast this weekend,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable Florida beach and boating experience. Beachgoers and surfers should check the rip current outlook and remember the warning flag signs before going into the water.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs 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. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

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. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
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.

Follow safe boating practices:
Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
File a float plan at your marina.
Thunderstorms and weather related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.
Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and 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/.

Statement by Director David Halstead Remembering Emergency Responders of the Terrorist Attacks on September 11, 2001

“Florida’s entire emergency management community will remember the brave men and women who responded to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. As the events of that fateful day unfolded, our entire country watched as our heroic first-responder friends and colleagues charged into the disaster with one mission: to save lives. We will never forget the courage and sacrifice of the police officers, firefighters, emergency managers, emergency medical service and health care providers, our military, and all others who served their nation in its time of need. Their response to the call, their commitment to their duty, and their unwavering devotion to serve will continue to inspire us all for generations to come.”

SEPTEMBER 10th MARKS THE HISTORICAL PEAK OF HURRICANE SEASON

TALLAHASSEE-- Today marks the annual historical peak of the Atlantic Hurricane Season and Florida emergency management officials are urging residents and visitors to prepare for further anticipated tropical developments. While no system is currently threatening the state, above average conditions for storm development can lead to rapid tropical strengthening and movement in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. To date, the National Hurricane Center has identified nine named tropical systems, three of which reached hurricane status.

“Though our state is not presently threatened by any tropical system, now is a good time to remind everyone that the height of hurricane season is upon us,” said David Halstead, director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “It is vital that all residents and visitors have a plan for what to do should a hurricane threaten their community. I encourage everyone to visit http://www.floridadisaster.org/ today to create or update your family and business disaster survival plan.”

Florida is the hurricane capital of the United States, with more hurricanes having made landfall than any other state. In July, Tropical Storm Bonnie made landfall in the Florida Keys and parts of South Florida. While no significant injuries or damage to infrastructure were reported as a result of this system, the storm should serve as a reminder that all Floridians should develop a disaster survival plan and maintain an emergency supply kit.

Hurricanes are one of nature’s most powerful forces. The powerful winds and heavy rains of some hurricanes have destroyed entire communities in Florida. Strong tropical storms can also cause severe damage, flooding, and injuries. Proper planning is crucial to protect individuals, families, and businesses, and special preparation should be made for friends and family members who are elderly, disabled, and have special needs.

The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 through November 30.

Statement by Florida Division of Emergency Management Director David Halstead Regarding the Oil Rig Fire off the Coast of Louisiana

“The State of Florida Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) has been closely monitoring the reports regarding the oil rig fire on Vermilion Block 380 off the coast of Louisiana. The Coast Guard is reporting that the facility is a fixed platform and not a floating rig (like the Deepwater Horizon) and it is not believed that the platform does any drilling. The State Watch Office located in the SEOC operates 24 hours daily and will continue to monitor this situation. The SEOC is currently at a Level 3 with Operations and Plans staff monitoring the situation and providing updates as needed.”

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED FOR ALL OF FLORIDA’S EAST COAST BEACHES FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE WEEK

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are again urging beachgoers along the entire Atlantic coast from Nassau County south to Miami-Dade County to use extreme caution Wednesday through Friday as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected due to ocean swells caused by Hurricane Earl. The National Weather Service has also issued a High Surf Advisory for beaches from Nassau County south through Martin County. A High Surf Advisory means that high waves may produce dangerous surf and minor beach erosion. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous, as large breaking waves of 3-8 feet could easily knock a person off their feet and make them especially susceptible to a rip current.

“Large ocean swells from Hurricane Earl are forecast peak today and persist through Friday, particularly along East Central and Northeast Florida beaches,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “These swells will create dangerous rip currents that could be life-threatening to those who enter the surf unprepared.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs 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. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

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. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
- Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
- Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
- Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards.
- Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
- Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
- 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.

Governor Crist Proclaims September as Florida Preparedness Month

Governor Charlie Crist today proclaimed September 2010 as ‘Florida Preparedness Month.’ In recognition of the month, the Florida Division of Emergency Management will be partnering with more than 3,200 organizations across the U.S. to help create a culture of disaster preparedness.

“With the tropics becoming more active, and as we approach the historical peak of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, it is vital that all of Florida’s residents and visitors take the time now to prepare their families, homes and businesses for any disaster that may occur,” said Governor Crist. “This month is the perfect time to learn about how to prepare for the potential hazards in your area and to create your disaster plan to ensure you are ready to protect yourself and your loved ones.”

In addition to participating in Florida’s Preparedness Month, the Division is participating in the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Ad Council’s seventh annual National Preparedness Ready Campaign, which will focus on encouraging Americans to work together to take concrete actions toward emergency preparedness.

“This is an excellent opportunity for all residents to get involved in local efforts such as Citizen Corps, Community Emergency Response Teams, and local faith and community-based organizations,” said Division of Emergency Management Director David Halstead. “By participating in these organizations, Floridians can help prepare for future disasters and learn how to build resiliency in our communities.”

The Division of Emergency Management has created an online program to assist Floridians in creating their family or business disaster plan. Visit www.FloridaDisaster.org and www.KidsGetaPlan.com to get started today!