Aug 28, 2008

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Diane Holm, Public Information Officer, 239-533-3710, cell 357-3540

As the Labor Day Holiday weekend approaches, the Lee County Emergency Operations Center has several important reminders for residents and visitors of Lee County.

1.     Lee County remains under a State of Local Emergency due to extensive flooding. Remember safe driving rules: if you can't see the road the water is too deep. Turn around, don't drown.

2.     Lee County Emergency Operations Center remains in an Activation Level 2.  The center will have minimal staffing Saturday, Sunday and Monday with additional staff on call if needed.

3.        Daily check the weather for changes in conditions related to tropical systems identified as Gustav and Hanna.

4.        Stay out of flood waters to avoid potentially hazardous bacteria and chemical contamination. Flood water is known to be unhealthy. If flood waters should make contact with skin, clean vigorously with soap and water.

5.        Rivers may continue to rise, but without further rainfall the flooded neighborhoods and roads are expected to recede.

6.        Lee County Mosquito Control will continue aggressive spraying operations countywide.

7.        A Fixed Aid Station for residents in need of food is set up at the Home Depot on Bonita Beach Road.

8.        Citizens should only use 9 – 1 – 1 for true emergencies. 

9.        Citizens in need of weather information, donation information or general assistance should call  2 - 1 - 1....the local United Way Office.  Weather information can also be received on NOAA Weather Radio. 

10.   Fire Districts are continually monitoring flooded roads in their districts.

11.   Mandatory evacuation orders continue for the Manna Christian and Saldivar Mobile Home Parks, Taylor Lane, Oakland Drive, Quinn Street, Edith Drive, Downs Drive and Carpenter Street, all in Bonita Springs or east of Bonita Springs. When the water recedes to a safe level, damage assessment teams will determine when and who will be allowed back in the evacuation areas.

12.   Estero Community Center is serving as a shelter for those who have evacuated their homes.  There were 483 people in the shelter as of Thursday, August 28.  The American Red Cross is managing the shelter with assistance from the Lee County Sheriff's Office, Lee County EMS, Estero Fire Department, Lee County CERT and the Lee County Health Department.

13.   Lee County Department of Transportation continues to clear ditches and canals causing flooding.   It is posting signs and barricades on closed roads.

14.   Sand and sand bags are still available at numerous fire stations.  Citizens should contact their local fire district for a listing of specific locations of sand and supplies.

15.   No curfews are in effect.

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