Gov. Crist continues efforts to promote preparedness at State Emergency Operations Center.

On Wednesday, Governor Charlie Crist joined state leaders and the state emergency response team, or SERT, for a hurricane tabletop exercise as part of his continued focus on Florida’s preparation for the 2009 Atlantic hurricane season. During this training exercise, Governor Crist praised the commitment of emergency responders to public service and reiterated his confidence that Florida is ready and able to handle a disaster.

“Florida’s landscape makes her vulnerable to hurricanes, and I strongly urge Floridians to prepare in anticipation of a potential storm,” said Governor Crist. “Taking the necessary precautions now by making a plan and stocking up on necessary supplies will ensure our people are ready in case disaster strikes.”

Each year, the Governor meets with Emergency Managers to encourage preparedness and to assess state disaster plans. Governor Crist emphasized that the safety of Floridians is always his top priority. In addition to participating in this mock exercise, Governor Crist continued to stress the importance of motivating Florida families to finalize their disaster plans.

He highlighted that plan details should include how to protect your home, where to go if ordered to evacuate and what items to take with you, such as insurance policies and other important documents. Families caring for someone with special needs or medical issues should contact the Special Needs Registry in their county and, if eligible, complete the necessary forms to register.

Governor Crist reminded responders that storms do not have to be hurricanes to be deadly or destructive. Last year, Tropical Storm Fay killed 15 Floridians and currently, there is a declared State of Emergency in Brevard, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Lake, Nassau, Orange, Putnam, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties due to severe weather and flooding.

Floridians can go to www.FloridaDisaster.org to update their personal, family or business disaster plans. Additional resources are also available at the link listed below.