Volusia County wildfires '98
Recovery information and newsAssistance: Disaster assistance is available from the Federal Emergency Management Agency for persons whose homes or businesses were damaged by the fires. Applications can be made by telephone by calling 1-800-462-9029. The TDD number for the speech or hearing impaired is 1-800-462-7585. Those calling should have on hand their Social Security number, address and zip code of the damaged property, directions to the damaged home or property and a daytime phone number. Assistance may include temporary housing or repairs, low interest loans or grant.
Damages: New figures from the Property Appraiser's Office show six residential structures, one mobile home and two commercial businesses have been destroyed. Two businesses had major damage. Two single family homes, four businesses and 10 mobile homes suffered minor damage. Preliminary estimated value of lost structures: $2.1 million. Timber damage has been estimated at more than $60 million.
Donations: Due to the tremendous outpouring of donations from residents and from around the nation, and now, reduced need, there is no further need for volunteers or supplies donations to the firefighting efforts in Volusia County. All calls offering donations or supplies will be directed to the state Emergency Operations Center at 1-800-265-4982.
Volusia County will continue to accept monetary contributions to the Volusia County Fire Relief Fund at any First Union Bank branch statewide. Donations can be mailed to the Volusia County Fire Relief Fund, First Union Bank, 444 Seabreeze Blvd., Daytona Beach, FL 32118.
Also, the Salvation Army cannot accept any more donated goods at either of its locations. Monetary donations still are being accepted for both the Salvation Army and the American Red Cross for fire relief efforts. Those wishing to donate to these agencies should contact the Red Cross at (904) 226-1400 or the Salvation Army at (904) 238-7456. Monetary donations to these organizations also also can be made through your local chapter.
Many, many thanks to all those who have donated food, drinks, bedding, coolers, money and more to our firefighting efforts! And of course, we are especially appreciative of all our terrific firefighters!
Emergency Operations: Firefighting and emergency operations have moved into the recovery phase. Hours at the Emergency Operations Center are 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Fires: Fires are 98 percent contained and mop up operations continue. Fire activity is being monitored for break outs and hot spots. Suppression of new fires from lightning strikes is a priority. Controlled fires are being set where and when it is appropriate. Approximately 244 miles of fire breaks have been installed.
Estimated total acreage burned or burning: 137,000.
Injuries: Ten firefighters and one fire contractor.
Copyright © 1997 Volusia County, Florida.