As Tropical Storm Isaias threatens to impact Florida this weekend, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis highlights the vital disaster response efforts of Florida’s fire service community including the state’s dedicated Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) teams. Currently there are seven US&R teams that are status level "green," meaning they are prepared for deployment. CFO Patronis’ Division of State Fire Marshal is the lead agency overseeing two Emergency Support Functions (ESF) at the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) during a disaster or state emergency. In dealing with the challenges of COVID-19, the staff supporting the SEOC was already activated.
CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis said, “As we closely monitor Tropical Storm Isaias, I held a call today with fire chiefs from across Florida to ensure our first responders are prepared for the potential impacts of heavy rain, flooding, and strong winds to our state this weekend."