FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 3, 2015

Contact: Communications Office
(850) 245-4111

TALLAHASSEE—The Florida Department of Health urges all Floridians to review emergency plans and restock preparedness supplies during Florida's Severe Weather Awareness Week, February 2–6, 2015. Simple precautions can help residents and visitors stay healthy and safe when weather-related hazards impact areas of the state.

"Severe weather is a persistent possibility in Florida and can cause serious health issues for our residents and visitors," said State Surgeon General and Secretary of Health Dr. John Armstrong. "Taking simple steps like updating a family emergency plan, getting vaccinated and keeping emergency health supplies on hand can help you and your family remain healthy and safe."

The department's Division of Emergency Preparedness and Community Support, in coordination with Florida's 67 county health departments, manage several programs dedicated to promoting community resilience through personal and professional emergency preparedness. This includes Community Preparedness, Healthcare System Preparedness, Disaster Response Resources, Environmental Health Preparedness and collaborative Training and Exercise.

During severe weather, Floridians can count on active alerts from the department's official social media accounts. One of the fastest ways to receive accurate, official information is to monitor @HealthyFla on Twitter and FLDepartmentofHealth on Facebook. The department uses these tools, in collaboration with other response partners, to share important health and other safety information to help protect residents and visitors.

The 2015 statewide tornado drill, sponsored by the National Weather Service, in conjunction with the Florida Division of Emergency Management, will begin Wednesday, February 4, at 10:10 a.m. ET. The alert will be a routine test message broadcast to all-hazard weather radios. Practicing emergency plans helps protect health and safety by increasing awareness of the actions necessary during an official tornado warning or other emergency event. Across the state, staff will be taking part in the statewide tornado drill as part of their professional emergency preparedness.

To find out more, get your copy of the Florida Department of Health Emergency Preparedness Guide at www.floridahealth.gov/_documents/2014-Florida-Emergency-Preparedness-Guide.html and visit www.floridahealth.gov.

The Florida Department of Health protects, promotes and improves the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.