Since 1992, when Hurricane Andrew caused unprecedented devastation in southern Florida, there has been a major emphasis on emergency management and on developing mutual aid systems among the fire departments and other emergency response organizations. The primary emphasis in much of this planning has been preparedness for hurricanes and natural disasters, as opposed to major fires, although fire suppression resources are usually an integral part of the disaster response plans.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management coordinates statewide response to major situations and provides assistance to counties and local jurisdictions, including both funding and resources. The focal point of this system is the State Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee. Each county has an emergency manager who is responsiblefor developing plans, coordinating local resources and maintaining links to the state system. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) works with the Division of Emergency Management when federal resources are requested by the state.
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