
Immediately following Hurricane Milton, more than 100 FWC officers sprang into action, bringing their high-water vehicles and specialized storm response equipment to the hardest-hit areas of Florida. These officers, many of whom have been working nonstop since Hurricane Helene devastated parts of the southeast just weeks ago, are once again at the forefront of rescue and recovery efforts.
In Clearwater, FWC officers worked with local agencies to rescue 426 people and 45 pets from a flooded apartment complex using swamp buggies and shallow-draft boats. In Hillsborough County, officers evacuated 147 people from floodwaters, including at an assisted living facility, while conducting 20 welfare checks. In Volusia County, 38 officers used airboats and high-water vehicles to rescue 20 stranded people, while another team in Port Orange saved several families, including three children and a dog, from their flooded homes.
FWC investigators are also closely monitoring wildlife facilities in storm-ravaged areas to ensure the safety of animals, with no reported escapes so far.
FWC’s around-the-clock work is crucial in protecting Florida’s residents, human and wild. If you’d like to join us in supporting their work, make a donation today.