IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS AND WEBSITES

Pinellas County Emergency Management: (727) 464-3800 | www.pinellascounty.org/emergency

Find your evacuation level: (727) 453-3150 | www.pinellascounty.org/emergency/knowyourzone.htm

Register for special needs transportation: (727) 464-3800 | www.pinellascounty.org/forms/special-needs.htm

Sign up for the Community Notification Service to receive text emergency information on your cell phone: (888) 689-8905

Set your Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) equipped all-hazards alert radio for Pinellas County: Enter code 012103

If you know of someone who would like to receive the E-Lert newsletter, have them visit www.pinellascounty.org/emergency/subscribe.htm

DRY WEATHER CAN MEAN WILDFIRES

This year's extensive drought and the freezes in January and February have created an ideal situation for wildfires. Something as small as a carelessly discarded cigarette butt can ignite a blaze which could consume hundreds of acres and prove deadly.

Much of Florida's ecosystem has adapted to wildfires, and many species of plants and animals rely on periodic wildfires to keep their habitat healthy. However, as development encroached into these natural habitats, wildfires became a greater threat to lives and property. If you live near a park, preserve or other wooded area, consider preparing your home to reduce property loss and improve your chances of survival. Some important tips include:

• Keep a 50-foot zone around your home clear of highly flammable plants, and remove dead branches, fallen leaves or other fuel.
• Prune any tree limbs that overhang your home's roof.
• Keep your yard mowed regularly.
• Consider fire-resistant building materials when replacing roof shingles, soffits, fascia or other exterior materials.
• Dispose of cigarette butts, charcoal or other flammable items properly.
• Develop a family disaster plan and be sure everyone knows what to do.
• Stay tuned to your local media for any fire-awareness updates .

You can also monitor the most up-to-date drought conditions at the U.S. Drought Monitor's Florida page at www.drought.unl.edu/dm/DM_state.htm?FL,SE.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors!

Members of the CERT team assist first responders during times of disasterand throughout the year by promoting preparedness in their neighborhoods. Increase your disaster awareness level. Join the Lealman CERT team. For more information, visit our website at www.lealmancert.org.

Lealman Fire District Station Locations

Station 18: 4360 55th Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL 33714

Station 19: 6694 46 Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL 33709

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