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Consider approving the actions of the City Manager & Mayor as it pertains to the authorization of deploying members and equipment of the City of Lawton Fire Department to the state of Florida in anticipation of Hurricane Milton as part of a Type 1 Swiftwater SAR Team.
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INITIATOR: John Ratliff, City Manager
STAFF INFORMATION SOURCE: Jared Williams, Fire Chief
BACKGROUND: The Lawton Fire Department received a request for assistance from the Florida Division of Emergency Management through the Oklahoma State Emergency Management Office in anticipation of Hurricane Milton. Specifically, the request is for a Type 1 Swiftwater SAR Team. This team is comprised of 16 personnel equipped with 4 watercraft capable of supporting mission needs to include search, rescue and recovery operations for humans and animals in swiftwater and swiftwater/flood environments. Lawton fire personnel deployed at approximately 5 A.M. on October 7th, 2024 and are accompanied by personnel from two other state fire departments. The deployment of these resources is scheduled for 10 days with their return to be October 16th, 2024.
In accordance with Lawton City Code, Chapter 8-1-103 E. the mayor and mayor pro tem may send police and other emergency responders of the city to the aid of other communities stricken by natural or man-made disasters when such disasters are affecting the health, welfare or security of the stricken community. However, once the council convenes, the further continuance of any such disaster relief and the period thereof shall be subject to the action of the council.
EXHIBIT: EMAC Resource Request
KEY ISSUES: None
FUNDING SOURCE: FEMA
STAFF RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION: Approving the actions of the City Manager & Mayor as it pertains to the authorization of deploying members and equipment of the City of Lawton Fire Department to the state of Florida in anticipation of Hurricane Milton as part of a Type 1 Swiftwater SAR Team.