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Tips to Avoid Gas Pump Skimmers This Memorial Day Weekend

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Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam is providing simple tips this Memorial Day weekend to help Floridians and visitors avoid skimmers, devices that are placed on gas pumps to steal consumers’ debit and credit card information. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has found and removed 185 skimmers so far this year.
The number of consumers victimized by each skimmer is estimated to be about 100 per device, with an average of $1,000 stolen from each victim.
Travelers can take the following steps to avoid skimmers at gas stations:

  • Pay in cash inside the store to ensure credit card information stays safe.
  • Check to make sure the gas pump dispenser cabinet is closed and has not been tampered with.
  • Use a gas pump closer to the front of the store. Thieves often place skimmers at the gas pumps farther away from the store.
  • Use a credit card instead of a debit card. Credit cards have better fraud protection, and the money is not deducted immediately from an account.
  • If using a debit card at the pump, choose to run it as a credit card instead of putting a PIN number in. That way, the PIN number is safe.
  • Monitor bank accounts regularly to spot any unauthorized charges.
  • Consumers who suspect their credit card number has been compromised should report it immediately to authorities and their credit card company.

Commissioner Putnam worked with the Florida Legislature last year to change Florida law to better protect consumers from identity theft at gas station pumps by:

  • Requiring self-service fuel dispensers to use certain security measures to prevent theft of consumer financial information;
  • Increasing enforcement authority against those who possess or traffic fraudulent credit cards;
  • Reclassifying the crime of unlawful conveyance of fuel, which increases the maximum sentence; and
  • Increasing the offense level of the crime, which affects sentencing guidelines.

Consumers who suspect that a gas pump has been tampered with should contact the gas station manager, local law enforcement or the department’s consumer protection and information hotline at 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) or, for Spanish speakers, 1-800-FL-AYUDA (352-9832).
The department regularly inspects gas stations and analyzes samples of petroleum products to ensure consumers are being offered quality products at a fair measure. For more information, visit FreshFromFlorida.com.

Department Offers Free Credit Protection to 469 People Affected by Data Breach

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The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services today notified 469 customers that their social security numbers may have been obtained as part of a data breach that appears to have originated from overseas and is offering free credit protection for one year to these individuals. No financial information was obtained in this data breach, which is the first that has occurred during this administration.
Commissioner Putnam has ordered a comprehensive review of the department’s cybersecurity measures, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement is assisting the department with its active investigation.
The social security numbers that may have been obtained had been entered in an online field where either a social security number or Federal Employer Identification Number could be entered. In 2009, the department began only to request a FEIN in this field and stopped the prior practice of requesting either a social security number or FEIN.
Additionally, names of 16,190 concealed weapon licensees, which is less than one percent of total number of concealed weapon licensees, may also have been obtained; however, no other individually identifying information of the concealed weapon licensees was compromised. Only concealed weapon licensees who renewed online may have had their names accessed. The department’s Office of Inspector General determined that there is no risk of identity theft to these licensees.
Other information possibly accessed per the data breach is all public information and poses no risk of identity theft. The breach occurred through the online payment system; although, the hackers were unsuccessful in obtaining any financial information. The department takes cybersecurity seriously and acted quickly to mitigate the effects of this breach. The privacy of the department’s customers is a top priority and will remain so.
Individuals who have concerns regarding their personal information should take the following steps:

  • Obtain a free credit report at www.AnnualCreditReport.com;
  • Place a fraud alert on your credit report if you believe your information has been compromised;
  • Closely monitor financial information;
  • Report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement; and
  • Check credit reports and credit card statements periodically.

Individuals can get a free credit report once a year by contacting:

Customers who may have been affected by this data breach can call 1-800-350-1119 for more information.

Same Day Florida Concealed Weapon License Renewal Now Available at Participating Tax Collectors’ Offices

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Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam announced today that same day renewal of Florida concealed weapon licenses is now available at 41 participating county tax collectors’ offices in Florida. The 41 tax collectors’ offices can now print renewal licenses on site, whereas previously, license holders could submit their renewal documents at the participating tax collectors’ offices and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services would then mail the renewed license if approved.
“My goal is to make applying for and renewing a Florida concealed weapon license as convenient as possible, and this new service gives license holders another option when renewing,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam.
With this new service at participating tax collectors’ offices, Florida concealed weapon licenses can now be renewed online, by mail or in person. There are more than 1.75 million active Florida concealed weapon licenses, and over 204,000 of these licenses will expire during 2017.
Florida concealed weapon licenses are processed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, but due to rising demand, tax collector offices have been given authority accept renewal applications and print renewal licenses for eligible applicants.
Visit FreshFromFlorida.com to learn how to apply for or renew a Florida concealed weapon license.

Commissioner Adam Putnam Provides Wildfire Update for Florida

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Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam and the Florida Forest Service announced today that more than 2,000 wildfires have burned over 150,000 acres in Florida this year, with nearly 125 active wildfires burning as of today, May 8, 2017. Current conditions by county, burn bans, and helpful tips regarding wildfires in Florida can be found here.
“Florida is in the middle of its worst wildfire season in years – with no end in sight,” Commissioner Putnam said. “With such an active wildfire season and much of Florida experiencing significant drought conditions, residents and visitors should take every precaution to help prevent wildfire.”
Conditions are forecast to get even drier and warmer into late spring and early summer. May is traditionally one of the driest months of the year in Florida, and that is the expectation for 2017. Commissioner Putnam asked Governor Scott to issue an executive order on April 11, 2017 in order to provide full resources to combat wildfires. The last time a similar executive order was issued was in June 2011.
Forecast wildfire danger for May 8, 2017:

Active wildfires in Florida:

County Burn Bans as of May 5, 2017:

Wildfires in Florida usually start and spread quickly, leaving little time to prepare for a possible evacuation. Homeowners can complete a few simple tasks that will help to defend their home against wildfire. One of the best ways to reduce a home’s wildfire risk is to create 30 feet of defensible space around the home. When creating defensible space, begin with the area immediately surrounding the home, about 3 feet out on all sides. Make sure this space is free of tall, fire-prone plants and materials. Keep this area clean and free of dead plant material and flammable mulches. Instead, opt for low growing, fire resistant plants and materials and use mulches, such as rocks or chunky bark. Deliberately space all plants so that none are placed directly under windows or vents around the house.
To increase home survivability, Floridians can do the following:

  • Keep mulch and pine needles away from your home, fence, and deck;
  • Keep roof and gutter free of pine needles;
  • Keep flammables away from your home;
  • Store fire wood at least 30 feet from your home;
  • Remove dead vegetation and debris from under the deck and within 10 feet of your home; and
  • Make wildfire preparedness a family project.

For more information about the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FreshFromFlorida.com

Commissioner Putnam Urges Public to Report Arson During National Arson Awareness Week

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Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam and the Florida Forest Service are asking the public to help prevent wildfires by reporting suspected arson during Arson Awareness Week, May 7-13. Since the beginning of 2017, arsonists have started approximately 320 wildfires in Florida that have burned more than 20,000 acres.
“Severe drought conditions have increased wildfire danger throughout the state, and unfortunately, man-made fires rank among the top causes of wildfires,” said Commissioner Adam H. Putnam, “With the help of Floridians, we can stop arsonists and protect life, property and wildlife in Florida.”
Woods arson devastates thousands of acres in Florida each year. Throughout 2016, nearly 400 wildfires in Florida were started by arson.
“Everyone loses when arsonists strike. This serious crime not only threatens homes, property and valuable natural resources, but also places the lives of Floridians and our first responders at risk,” said James R. Karels, State Forester. “The state will not tolerate anyone who purposefully endangers Floridians or our visitors by engaging in these activities.”
To report suspicious wildfire activity, contact the department’s Arson Alert Hotline at 1-800-342-5869. Callers can remain anonymous and information about wildland arson could result in a reward up to $5,000. When reporting suspected woods arson activity, callers should remember the following tips:

  • After calling 911, call 1-800-342-5869;
  • Do not approach the suspect;
  • Identify vehicle descriptions and license plates;
  • Identify physical descriptions of suspects; and
  • Identify the location where the suspicious behavior was observed.

The Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, manages more than 1 million acres of state forests and provides forest management assistance on more than 17 million acres of private and community forests. The Florida Forest Service is also responsible for protecting homes, forestland and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfire on more than 26 million acres. Learn more at FloridaForestService.com.
For more information about the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FreshFromFlorida.com.

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Hosts Statewide Zika Workshops

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The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services hosted a series of Zika workshops for mosquito control programs throughout Florida, which concluded last week. The department hosted regional workshops in the following counties to discuss mosquito surveillance and control measures: Alachua, Brevard, Broward, Hillsborough, Lee, Leon and Okaloosa.
“As we enter into the warmer months, it’s especially important that Florida communities are equipped with the knowledge and resources they need for their Zika-related response efforts,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam.
The department continues to support local programs by providing mosquito testing at the Bronson Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory. To date, nearly 90,000 individual mosquitoes, represented by more than 6,500 pools of mosquitoes, have been tested for the presence of the Zika virus. Of those collected in 2017, none has yielded positive results.
While the Florida Department of Health is the lead agency in this public health crisis, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is supporting efforts by:

  • Providing technical assistance to mosquito control programs and the Department of Health;
  • Monitoring mosquito control activities across the state and notifying local mosquito control programs of arbovirus activity or events;
  • Identifying resources to conduct incident-related mosquito control efforts.

For more information regarding Zika, visit the Florida Department of Health’s website here.

Commissioner Putnam Urges Department of Commerce to Investigate Mexico’s Unfair Trade Practices

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Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam sent a letter to Department of Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross emphasizing the need for fair trade, as Mexican imports have negatively affected Florida agriculture. He asked the Department of Commerce to initiate an investigation into Mexico’s unfair trade practices.
“I believe that Florida produces the highest quality agricultural commodities in the world and can successfully compete in a global market on a level playing field. Unfortunately, the current trade environment created under NAFTA is anything but a fair and level playing field for Florida’s producers,” stated Commissioner Adam H. Putnam in the letter.
The letter can be found here.

Gianna Rivera Wins “Fresh From Florida” Student Chef Cook-Off

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Student Chef Cook-Off champion Gianna Rivera

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services today announced that Gianna Rivera of Bloomingdale High School in Hillsborough County is the 2017 “Fresh From Florida” Student Chef Cook-Off champion. Rivera competed against four other regional finalists from across the state. Rivera’s winning Citrus Chicken Taco with Watermelon Salsa will be served in a school cafeteria, and the recipes of all five finalists will be converted into school meal service portions and accessible to sponsors throughout the state.
“A healthy diet is the foundation of academic success, and this competition is a fun way for students to learn how to incorporate wholesome ingredients into their daily lives,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam.
Rivera and the other finalists prepared original dishes featuring at least one Florida-grown fruit or vegetable for a panel of judges. Sheldon Riley of Fort Pierce Westwood High School in St. Lucie County placed second with his Southwestern Chicken and Orzo Salad. Wesley Hill of Eastside High School in Alachua County placed third with his Sautéed Chicken Salad with Citrus Bell Pepper Salsa.
The “Fresh From Florida” Student Chef Cook-Off entry requirements include:

  • Applicants must be a Florida student in 9th through 12th grade.
  • The recipe must be original and submitted with a photo.
  • The recipe must contain at least one fresh fruit or fresh vegetable grown in Florida.
  • The recipe must have clear directions and be prepared in 75 minutes or less.
  • The recipe must promote healthy eating habits and meet National School Lunch Program guidelines.

For more information on the “Fresh From Florida” Student Chef Cook-Off, visit FreshFromFlorida.com/StudentCookOff.

Commissioner Putnam Seeks Nominations for Woman of the Year in Agriculture

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Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam is now accepting nominations for the 2017 “Woman of the Year in Agriculture” award.
Since 1985, the “Woman of the Year in Agriculture” award has recognized women in all areas of the industry who have made outstanding contributions to Florida agriculture. The deadline for submitting nominations is June 1, 2017.
Nominations may be submitted electronically by accessing the application located on the Woman of the Year in Agriculture page.  Nominations may also be sent via U.S. mail or fax to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Director of External Affairs Clay Hollis. Send completed nomination forms to the Florida Department of Agriculture of and Consumer Services, Plaza Level 10, The Capitol, 400 S Monroe St., Tallahassee, Fla. 32399-0800; Fax 850-617-7744, [email protected].
More information about the “Woman of the Year in Agriculture” award and past award winners can be found here. For more information about the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FreshFromFlorida.com.

50 Florida Schools Awarded HealthierUS School Challenge Designation in March

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Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam today announced that 50 more Florida schools earned HealthierUS School Challenge designations during March, bringing the current total of Florida’s HUSSC schools to 280. Under Commissioner Putnam’s leadership, the number of certified HUSSC schools has increased from 27 schools in 2012, when the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services assumed responsibility of the state’s school nutrition programs.
The HealthierUS School Challenge, a joint effort of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is a voluntary certification initiative that recognizes schools’ efforts to improve food and beverage options, offer nutrition education and promote physical activity. Schools must meet specific criteria, such as providing smarter snacks and opportunities for physical activity.
“Nutritious meals are the key to academic success, and I applaud these schools for providing students with the building blocks for a healthy lifestyle,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam.
In an effort to expand the program, the department offers many resources to help school districts earn HUSSC certification, including specialists throughout the state to provide personal, hands-on support. The department continually certifies and recertifies schools, as schools must reapply for their HUSSC status every four years to maintain certification.
Schools can apply for four different award levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Gold Award of Distinction. The following schools were awarded HUSSC designation in March:
Orange County Public Schools

  • Waterbridge Elementary School (Gold)

Sarasota County School District

  • Alta Vista Elementary School (Silver)
  • Ashton Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Atwater Elementary School (Silver)
  • Bay Haven Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Brentwood Elementary School (Silver)
  • Cranberry Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Emma E. Booker Elementary School (Silver)
  • Englewood Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Fruitville Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Garden Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Glenallen Elementary School (Silver)
  • Gocio Elementary School (Silver)
  • Gulf Gate Elementary School (Silver)
  • Lakeview Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Lamarque Elementary School (Silver)
  • Philippi Shores Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Southside Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Tatum Ridge Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Toledo Blade Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Tuttle Elementary School (Silver)
  • Venice Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Wilkinson Elementary School (Silver)

The School District of Clay County

  • Clay Hill Elementary School (Silver)
  • Coppergate Elementary School (Silver)
  • Lake Asbury Elementary School (Bronze)
  • McRae Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Middleburg Elementary School (Silver)
  • Plantation Oaks Elementary School (Bronze)
  • RideOut Elementary School (Silver)
  • Ridgeview Elementary School (Silver)
  • Tynes Elementary School (Bronze)

The School District of Lee County

  • Challenger Middle School (Bronze)
  • Diplomat Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Gulf Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Gulf Middle School (Bronze)
  • Hancock Creek Elementary School (Bronze)
  • North Fort Myers High School (Bronze)
  • Orange River Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Patriot Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle School (Bronze)
  • Rayma C. Page Elementary School (Bronze)
  • Veterans Park Academy for the Arts (Bronze)

The School District of Osceola County

  • Deerwood Elementary School (Silver)
  • Hickory Tree Elementary School (Silver)
  • Kissimmee Elementary School (Silver)
  • KOA Elementary School (Silver)
  • Mill Creek Elementary School (Silver)
  • Poinciana Elementary School (Silver)
  • Reedy Creek Elementary School (Silver)

For more information about the HealthierUS School Challenge Initiative and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FreshFromFlorida.com.