FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:   John Wilson, Lee County Public Safety
                 (941) 335-1600

FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 27, 2001) – The Board of Lee County Commissioners let a "State of Local Emergency," in place since Feb. 20 due to a threat of wildfires, lapse today because of improved conditions.

Lee County was one of several counties removed last week from a state open burning ban and its drought index is not as high as it was several weeks ago.

The state of emergency declaration made the county eligible for federal fire suppression funds and temporarily increased the Public Safety Division’s ability to combat emergencies, including being able to expend additional funds, order evacuations and open shelters. It also is a signal to residents that they should be aware of the potential threat of brush fires in the area.

Emergency Management is recommending that residents continue to be cautious when dealing with devices and materials that could start fires.

For tips on how to protect your property from wildfires, visit Lee County’s website at www.lee-county.com and click on "Tips for Protecting Your Property Against Wildfires" under Lee County Information.

For more information on Florida’s drought and wildland fire safety, you also can visit the Florida Division of Emergency Management on the Internet at www.floridadisaster.org or the Florida Division of Forestry at www.fl-dof.com.