Each of Florida's seven Regional Domestic Security Task Forces, in coordination with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), has completed tabletop and functional exercises over the past several years. These exercises provide vital training to members of all disciplines, including law enforcement, fire, health, education and the private sector.
"Preparation and practice are the foundation of Florida's disaster response efforts," said FDLE Commissioner Gerald Bailey. "These exercises are a way for us to put our preparedness skills to the test and build upon our collective ability to successfully manage and respond to emergency situations."
In addition to domestic security efforts by FDLE and DEM, the Florida Department of Health (DOH) is continuing its preparedness programs to ensure the protection of all Floridians. Recently, DOH officials completed a training exercise on pandemic flu planning, along with federal officials from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
"The Department of Health is committed to keeping Floridians safe and healthy," said DOH Secretary Ana Viamonte Ros, M.D., M.P.H. "We are working to make sure the people of Florida are informed, engaged and prepared to face pandemic flu or any other disaster."
Florida's statewide domestic security strategy is organized around
- Prevent, pre-empt and deter acts of terrorism
- Prepare for terrorism response missions
- Protect Florida's citizens, visitors and critical infrastructure
- Respond in an immediate, effective and coordinated manner
- Recover quickly and restore normalcy
Since September 11, 2001, Florida has received nearly $975 million in federal and state funding dedicated to ensuring the state's domestic security and increasing responder capabilities.
For more information on Florida's domestic security efforts, visit www.fdle.state.fl.us
For more information regarding family preparedness plans and the State Emergency Response Team, see www.FloridaDisaster.org or www.myflorida.com.
