NEW
(Take careful note of the different locations)
Special Meeting-Tuesday July 14, 2009
6:00 p.m.
East Lee County High School
715 Thomas Sherwin Ave.
Budget Workshops
East County Regional Library
881 Gunnery Road
Lehigh Acres
August 6, 2009 4-8 p.m.
August 18, 2009 6-8 p.m.
August 27, 2009 4-8 p.m. (if needed)
Budget Hearings
East Lee County High School
715 Thomas Sherwin Ave.
September 9, 2009 5:01 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
September 24, 2009 5:01 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
Swine Flu Precautions
9 year old Javin Hazelton washing and scrubbing his hands thoroughly
Swine Flu fears are sweeping the country and the world. The Centers for Disease Control (CDS) has activated its Emergency Operations Center to coordinate its response to this emerging health threat. Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, Janet Napolitano, has also declared a public health emergency in the United States.
In addition the World Health Organization has raised its phase of alert for a pandemic to a four, two levels below a worldwide pandemic of widespread human infection.
The CDC has determined this strain of swine flu is contagious and can be passed from human to human. Here are some prevention tips from the CDC.
What You Can Do
1. Avoid close contact who are sick.
2. Stay home when you are sick.
3. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing
or sneezing.
4. Wash and scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds
with warm water and soap.
5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
Symptoms
Unfortunately, symptoms of swine flu are similar to other less serious human flus. They include sore throat, fever, body aches, chills, fatigue and cough. Fortunately there are vaccinations and medications available to treat swine flu. If you suspect you may be infected contact your health professional immediately.
For more information go to Centers for Disease Control http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/
And World Health Organization http://www.who.int/en/
You can also watch a podcast from the Centers for Disease Control at http://www.cdc.gov/
Brushfire Season is Here
Caution is Urged
As of April 28, 2009 the drought index for Lee County is 582 and climbing. In addition to the lack of recent rains the cold snaps have killed or dried out a lot of shrubs and bushes creating conditions ripe for brush fires.
Although a total burn ban has not been enacted yet by the county, any outdoor burning in the current conditions could be hazardous.
Residents are urged to be cautious and to be aware of what is allowed.
Burning of Yard Waste
Burning of trash or yard debris is generally not legal in Lehigh Acres unless you obtain a permit to do so.
Recreational Fires
So-called “recreational fires” are allowed if you meet certain conditions. A recreational fire is considered to be small like a campfire or cooking fire. A small recreational fire is allowed if:
- It is no larger than 48 inches in width
- There is a 25 foot setback from structures and combustible materials
- There is a retention barrier around the fire
- It is constantly attended by a competent person
- There is a charged water hose able to reach 15-20 feet beyond the fire.
Bonfires
- A recreational fire larger than 48 inches wide is considered a “bonfire.” Bonfires require:
- A setback of at least 165 feet from any structures
- A 25 foot setback from any combustible materials like brush or trees
- A retention barrier around the fire
- A competent person attending the fire at all times
- A charged water hose able to reach 15-20 feet beyond the fire
Neither a “Recreational Fire” nor a “Bonfire” is allowed if a burn ban is in effect. If you would like, one of our inspectors would be happy to schedule a courtesy visit to show you what safety precautions are necessary. Our goal is your safety first.