Updated:
February 5, 2008 16:24  

Florida’s Hazardous Weather Awareness Week will take place from February 2-9, 2008.  This year’s theme of “8 days in ’08” recognizes the one year anniversary of the Groundhog Day tornadoes that struck Sumter, Lake, and Volusia counties.  Hazardous Weather Awareness Week is an opportunity for Floridians to learn about the various weather hazards that frequently impact the state and how families and businesses can prepare for these natural events. 

Each middle school student will receive a copy of the 2008 Hazardous Weather Awareness Guide, “The Weather Report”, later this month.  We encourage Florida’s high school students to enter this year’s short essay contest that is administered by Just Read, Florida!  The Capital Area Chapter of the American Red Cross is again conducting the statewide 4th and 5th grade poster contest. 

MESSAGE FROM GOVERNOR CHARLIE CRIST

Each day, more than 17-million people call the Sunshine State their home. Florida is a great place to live, work and play. But with this beautiful place comes a personal responsibility for each of us to be prepared for the hazards that affect our state.

In Florida, natural events such as thunderstorms and lightning are common.The key to your family’s safety is being aware of hazardous weather conditions and knowing how to prepare for them.

I have recently proclaimed Feb. 2-9, 2008, as an extended Florida Hazardous Weather Awareness Week, this year adding one day to note the anniversary of last year’s Groundhog Day tornadoes and the efforts of survivors and their communities to be prepared for 2008. I urge you to read the Weather Report and share this valuable information with your family. This Florida Hazardous Weather Awareness guide will help us all make better decisions about personal safety year-round.

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR OF THE FLORIDA DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

The Florida Division of Emergency Management works with local governments to respond to all types of disasters. Many of these disasters are due to natural weather events, such as hurricanes, tornadoes and floods. After the deadly tornadoes and wildfires last year, too many times we heard from survivors who said, “I only had minutes to act, I wished I had been better prepared, planned ahead and followed the local warnings.”

For 2008, the state of Florida remains committed to promote a culture of preparedness across our great state. You have a vital role and can do your part by taking the time to learn about the different hazards we face. Now is the perfect time to get a plan, restock emergency supplies, purchase a NOAA Alert Radio, and be ready to act when threatening weather approaches your community.

Please read and share this informative guidebook with your family, friends and co-workers. This is life-saving culture that all Floridians can benefit from.