Florida Governor Crist Urges Floridians To Prepare For 2008 Hurricane Season

May 14, 2008 -- FT. LAUDERDALE – Florida Governor Charlie Crist today, in his second address to more than 2,600 emergency managers, first responders, and volunteer agencies, praised their commitment to public service. He also encouraged all Floridians to prepare for the 2008 hurricane season during the general session of the 22nd Annual Governor’s Hurricane Conference.

Florida hurricane damage: Photo by Zaylea (CC)

“I have witnessed the unselfish efforts by thousands of Florida responders over the past year who answered the call, again and again, to help their fellow Floridians,” said Governor Crist. “I want to thank each of you for your commitment and dedication to public service, and for demonstrating that Florida has the best response team in the nation.”

At the conference, the Governor announced that he will be signing a proclamation this month declaring May 25-31, 2008, as Florida Hurricane Preparedness Week. The state’s week will run in tandem with the national preparedness outreach week across hurricane-prone states.

“We have learned that everyone has a role to play and a responsibility to prepare to the best of their ability,” said Governor Crist. “We know that we must stand together in order to be prepared for future storms that may come our way.”

This year’s conference theme, Maintaining the Vigil While Preparing for the Inevitable, provides responders with a week of training courses, workshops and roundtable discussions. Director Craig Fugate, of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, emphasized the importance of the theme of the 22nd annual meeting that brings so many colleagues together.

“It’s almost June 1; we live in the Sunshine State; therefore, as emergency managers and residents, failure is not an option while preparing for the inevitable storm,” said Fugate. “Everyone needs to get a plan before a disaster strikes.”
The 2008 Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1. For more information on the 2008 season and how to develop your own personal or business disaster plan, please visit www.FloridaDisaster.org, and the State of Florida at www.myflorida.com.

Source: Florida Governor

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