Crist Proclaims Jan. 18-24 As Hazardous Materials Awareness Week

Gov. Charlie Crist has proclaimed Jan. 18-24 as Hazardous Materials Awareness Week.

The Florida Division of Emergency Management, in partnership with the State Emergency Response Commission for Hazardous Materials and the Local Emergency Planning Committees, join Crist in commemorating the week. This year's theme: Minimizing Mercury Releases, designed to educate Floridians on the proper disposal of compact fluorescent lights.

The Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act provides an opportunity for all residents in Florida to be aware of the following:

•What facilities and chemicals may be located near you

Evacuation routes for your home, workplace and your children's schools

Shelter-in-place procedures

Industry and community warning systems.

The Emergency Planning Community Right-To-Know Act requires certain facilities that have hazardous materials to report their inventories to the State Emergency Response Commission, their Local Emergency Planning Committee and local fire department. This information is available to residents upon request to the State Commission or the Local Emergency Planning Council. Hernando County is in the Withlacoochee region. The contact number is 352-732-1315.

Hernando County Emergency Management recommends all residents to take the time to find out more about the potential hazards you may encounter in your area. To get a plan please go to: www.hernandocounty.us/em or www.FloridaDisaster.org.