June 26, 1998-- 10 p.m.
Kathy Catron
Community InformationFIRES CONTAINED IN VOLUSIA COUNTY
All fires in Volusia County continue to be contained at this time. Fire fighting efforts today will include controlled burns along the Lafayette fire line (area of Lafayette Landing Road east to Tomoka Woods off Hwy 11). These controlled burns will cause increased smoke and fire along Highway 11.
Law enforcement and forestry officials continue to investigate suspicious fires. Officials expressed concerns over arson activities. One arrest has already been made and another arrest is pending.
"We will not tolerate arson," Lt. Wayne Petrovich of the Florida Fire Marshals Office. "Arson is a felony offense and will strenuously pursue charges against any individuals involved in arson activities."
Approximately 80,000 acres in Volusia have been consumed by fire. No homes have been lost in Volusia.
New federal resources have arrived, including the Blue Team from the Southeastern region, a team of federal management personnel. More than 100 additional firefighters are arriving. Operations will continue to be coordinated through a unified command set up with County and State forces attacking new fires and federal crews providing mop up operations.
In other news:
On Sunday, June 28, 1998, United States Senators Bob Graham and Connie Mack will tour the affected areas by helicopter.
The generosity of Volusia County citizens has resulted in an oversupply of food and beverage donations. Fire fighters appreciate the efforts and support of the citizens. However, all donations of food and beverage items should be discontinued at this time.
Donations to the Volusia County Fire Relief Fund can be made at any branch of First Union Bank statewide. Donors should call (904) 740-5100 in West Volusia; (904) 248-8100 in Daytona Beach or (904) 424-6880 in New Smyrna Beach.
Note to news media: Be aware that controlled burns are in effect across Volusia. Fires along roadsides may not be brushfires, but part of the controlled burn efforts. Please confirm brushfire locations with public information at 258-4085.
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