Let's Talk... Hot Off The Press!

Emergency Numbers and Irma  Information

This morning the Board of Fire Commissioners declared a State of Emergency for the North Collier Fire District. We continue to wait for official word from the Collier County EOC on mandatory evacuations and shelter openings. In the coming days, these are important emergency numbers to have on hand: Collier County Information Hotline 239-252-8444 or 311 Special Needs 239-252-8809 Emergencies Dial 911 Non-Emergencies 239-252-9300 Please note, first responders do have restrictions during storms. If winds reach a sustained speed of 45 MPH vehicles will not be responding to emergency calls. The calls will continue to be received by the 911 center, logged and once the winds recede emergency care providers will begin to respond to the list of calls. Please find additional information and tips listed below. Basic Preparedness Tips Know where to go. If you are ordered to evacuate, know the evacuation route(s) to take and have a plan for where you can stay. Put together a go-bag: disaster supply kit, including a flashlight, batteries, cash, first aid supplies, medications, and copies of your critical information if you need to evacuate.  Make sure your CERT Bags are all full of the items needed if you are planning on staying local. If you are not in an area that is advised to evacuate and you decide to stay in your home, plan for adequate supplies in case you lose power and water for at least 72 hours and you are not able to leave due to flooding or blocked roads. Make a family emergency communication plan. http://ecnetwork.com/  This is the link to the CODERed System Utilized by the Collier Sheriff’s Office. Click on the upper right-hand corner under enroll and follow the instructions from there. We will send emails, update our Facebook page so please keep an eye out on all your social media outlets and computers for the tiem being. Preparing Your Home Hurricane winds can cause trees and branches to fall, trim or remove damaged trees and limbs to keep you and your property safe. Secure loose rain gutters and downspouts and clear any clogged areas or debris to prevent water damage to your property. Reduce property damage by retrofitting to secure and reinforce the roof, windows and doors, including the garage doors. If you have a portable generator now is the time to check it.  PLEASE Remember to keep generators and other alternate power/heat sources outside, at least 20 feet away from windows and doors and protected from  moisture; and NEVER try to power the house wiring by plugging a generator into a wall outlet.  Other Resources:   If you do decide to evacuate please consider the below as you return home: Be sure you have at LEAST TWO forms of ID with you for re-entry.  Collier County EOC suggested Drivers License, copy of a Utility Bill and your automobile registration assuming it matches your home address.  You will need to show proof of who you are and that you live at the address.  Wait for the all-clear to be given and the evacuation order to be lifted.  You actually help others by not being in the way while crews are still trying to open roads, restore power, restore water, etc.  Delaying your return could also mean better traffic for you and less time spent sitting in the car. Gas up often on the way back and try to arrive home with a full tank.  Local stations may be closed for a while. Buy groceries and supplies where you are today to bring home with you.  Local stores may also be closed for a while. The same goes for any medications you may have to refill.  Get them where you are before heading home.  When arriving home do a “scene size-up”  before even getting out of the car (where you’re protected).  Sections of power lines might be down (which on moist ground can electrocute you), limbs may be hanging by a thread and ready to fall, trees may still fall while the ground is wet, and be sure to look out for displaced animals (especially snakes) that may have chosen your yard as their evacuation destination. These apply for your pet as well. Don’t let your pet out in your yard unattended.  Snakes may be a threat, and who knows what has washed into the yard that may be toxic to your four-legged loved ones.