Florida's SERT Urges Motorists to Give Emergency Responders Priority on Major Roads

TALLAHASSEE - Florida�s State Emergency Response Team urges motorists to give emergency and recovery vehicles priority use of interstates and major roadways.

�Interstate 10 is the major connection that allows Florida to help our neighboring states on the Gulf Coast,� said Director Craig Fugate of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. �It is imperative motorists find alternative routes whenever possible to aid travel for those participating in Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts.�

Fugate further recommended residents from other states who sought refuge in Florida remain in the area until their local officials have given them permission to return.

In addition to hindering emergency and responder vehicles, motorists who choose to travel in impacted areas are also impeding necessary road and bridge repairs.

�When motorists travel unnecessarily, either to look at damage or make needless trips, they hinder our repair crews,� said FDOT Secretary Denver Stutler. �We simply ask they delay their trips until we make sure travel is safe.�

For more information on Hurricane Katrina please go to www.FloridaDisaster.org.

The Florida Emergency Information Line is 800-342-3557.

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