Lafayette County Emergency Management

Alton Scott, in January of 2011 I went over the three year mark as the county’s Emergency Management Coordinator. During the past few years I’ve seen Mallory Swamp burn again, the Suwannee River Flood to almost the 1992 level, and yes, the county is still in a drought.

I would like to announce that our Local Mitigation Strategy program has been approved by FEMA and we are now good for five years. What it really means is that if we suffer a catastrophic event and a federal declaration occurs, we are eligible for FEMA reimburstments.

We want to make this upcoming hurricane season as safe as we possible can. This year's Hurricane predictions are not out yet but I do expect hearing something in a few months, around May. I do want everyone to keep up the good work by making sure you are prepared for such an event. Our new CERT (Citizens Emergency Response Team) is up and going under the leadership of Mr. Eric Black of the Forestry Division. If you are interested, don’t hesitate to give me a call (386) 294-1950 for information on the program. Don't forget to go to www.floridadisaster.org for additional information of how to prepare for the Hurricane Season.

Stay safe, be prepared, and if you hear the call to evacuate, take care of your family first then don’t forget to give a last check on your neighbors in the event they need some help.