Division of Emergency Management

Applications are open for those needing help removing debris from their property or for those needing to report missing property.

In 2010 the Southwest Florida county changed from a ‘Just in Case’ to a ‘Just in Time’ protocol for emergency management to avoid “over-evacuation.” The protocol was followed — with potentially deadly consequences.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and other state agencies are working with vessel owners to remove or relocate these vessels.

The difficult environment has put many insurers out of business and caused others to raise their prices or tighten their restrictions, making it harder for Floridians to obtain insurance.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved Florida’s request for a disaster declaration stemming from tornadoes that touched down in Southwest Florida in January. The declaration opens the door for impacted residents and businesses to apply for SBA disaster loans.

The tests, which had expired in late December, are earmarked for emergency management offices, county health departments, hospitals and long-term care facilities.

Kevin Guthrie, director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, said his agency is "ready to be doing something else."

Florida could be moving closer to stockpiling fuel for future hurricanes or other disasters.