Gov. Scott and Commissioner Putnam Urge Collier County Residents to Monitor Wildfire and Remain Vigilant

Governor Rick Scott held a call today with Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putman, Division of Emergency Management (DEM) Director Bryan Koon, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) Executive Director Terry Rhodes, Department of Transportation (DOT) Interim Secretary Rachel Cone, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Chief of Staff Jennifer Fitzwater and Collier County Fire Rescue personnel to discuss the ongoing wildfire in Collier County.
Governor Scott said, “This morning I spoke with Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putman, DEM, DHSMV, DOT, DEP, FWC and Collier County Fire Rescue personnel to discuss the ongoing wildfire in Collier County. As our state begins to experience hotter summer temperatures and dry conditions, it is critical that all Floridians remain vigilant and do their part to prevent wildfires.
“The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has already deployed five fire engines to assist Collier County Fire Rescue and the Florida Forestry Service with firefighting efforts.
“The Florida Highway Patrol has deployed troopers to the area and closed I-75 between Mile Marker 80 (S.R. 29) and 105 (Golden Gate Parkway) due to the wildfire and is actively monitoring the situation to ensure motorist safety. The Florida National Guard stands ready to offer aviation resources to combat the fire and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission stands ready to offer aviation and law enforcement resources if needed.
“The State Watch Office at DEM is actively monitoring the wildfires and will continue to support federal, state and local partners in ensuring the safety of residents and deployment of resources.  At this time, local officials have not reported any unmet needs to the state and we stand ready to assist.”
Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Adam H. Putnam said, “Our firefighters with the Florida Forest Service worked through the evening to continue the efforts to contain and suppress the fire in Collier County. We’ll continue to work with our partnering agencies, and may we keep these first responders in our prayers.”
As of this morning, a wildfire is burning a more than 6,500-acre area South of Alligator Alley and East of Naples in the Picayune Strand State Forest. Four homes have been lost. There are no injuries or fatalities confirmed at this time.
Collier County has issued a mandatory evacuation for the following areas: Naples Club RV Park and Panthers Walk RV Park along with all of the Forest Glenn community and horse stables in and along Neuman Road. Affected residents are to report to the Golden Gate Community Center.
Learn more about how you can protect you home and family and prevent wildfires HERE.