The Marion County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with Florida Division of Emergency Management (DEM), the State Emergency Response Commission (SERC) and the eleven Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPC’s) have declared the week of January 20 through the 26 to be Hazardous Materials Awareness Week. This week is a time for noting the ongoing efforts to foster industry awareness, compliance and protection of the state’s citizens and environment through proper management of hazardous materials.

This week, it is asked that residents recognize what potential impacts hazardous materials may have in their neighborhoods. It is also requested that businesses take this time to update their reporting requirements and registrations. Communities and families should take the time to make themselves aware of their local potential hazards and to create a family emergency plan. The use of chemicals, such as chlorine for pools, and other household materials are fairly common. All residents should be able to answer the following questions: What are the hazards in my neighborhood and community? How do they affect me? And, What is my plan of action to respond to these hazards?

The District 5 LEPC would like to offer the opportunity for citizens and commercial users to increase public awareness of community “right -to- know” provisions. Residents in cities and towns across the Withlacoochee Region should become informed of their responsibilities regarding potential hazards in their homes and neighborhoods. For further help and questions, please contact Michael Arnold, Principal Planner and LEPC District 5 Coordinator at 352-732-1315 extension 228 or at Marnold@WRPC.cc.