Make 511 Part of Your Emergency Preparedness Plan

FL511.com - September 11, 2008

(PRNewsChannel) / Orlando, Fla. / The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recognized September as National Preparedness Month to encourage Americans to plan for emergencies. As Floridians prepare for hurricanes and other severe weather, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is reminding residents to include its free 511 Traffic Information Service as part of those emergency plans.

Florida’s 511 service provides information on highway and bridge conditions, toll suspensions, road closures and evacuation routes. The free service is accessible by dialing 511 from a cell phone, landline or by visiting www.FL511.com. Callers can hear real-time reports on interstate highways throughout the state, major metropolitan roadways and Florida’s Turnpike. The 511 service is free, however cell phone minutes apply.

“Our primary goal is to keep people safe, especially during severe weather conditions and hurricanes,” said FDOT Secretary Stephanie Kopelousos. “By dialing 511 or visiting the FL511.com Web site, people can stay updated with road conditions so they can make good travel decisions.”

The DHS suggests Americans take four steps toward emergency preparedness:
• Get an emergency supply kit
• Make a family emergency plan
• Be informed about the different types of emergencies that could occur and their appropriate responses
• Get involved in the community
For more information about National Preparedness Month, visit www.ready.gov/america.

Safety Tips
1. Call 511 before you hit the road, at a rest area or have a passenger call to avoid talking while driving.
2. Call 511 before you enter a new roadway to become aware of the current road condition.
3. Customize your trip at www.FL511.combefore you leave home to minimize time spent on the phone.
4. Drive slowly and keep your lights on in low visibility.
5. Do not use cruise control when driving in rain.
6. Always wear a safety belt.

511 Tips
1. Speak as clearly as possible and minimize any background noise – including radios and open windows.
2. Say “help” for instructions.
3. Say “next,” “previous,” “stop” or “repeat” to navigate through the phone menus more quickly.
4. Say “main menu” at any time to start over.
5. Interrupt 511 at any time if you already know your selection.

Emergency Preparedness Kit Materials (according to www.ready.gov/america)
1. One gallon of water per person per day, for three days – remember to include enough for your pets
2. At least a three-day supply of nonperishable food. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and little or no water and choose foods your family will eat: ready–to–eat canned meats, peanut butter, protein or fruit bars, dry cereal or granola. Also pack a manual can opener and eating utensils
3. Battery–powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
4. Flashlight and extra batteries
5. First aid kit
6. Whistle to signal for help
7. Dust mask to help filter contaminated air
8. Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
9. Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
10. Local maps

Source Web Site: FL511.com