Monday, May 03, 2010

Emerald Coast Wildlife Rescue

Gov. Charlie Crist on Friday declared a state of emergency in several counties in Florida's Panhandle due to the threat posed by the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. The order affects Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa (where we live), Walton, Bay and Gulf counties.

The Destin-based Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge needs your help in preparing for likely oil spill impacts to area marine life.

On the site's Facebook page, the refuge's Amanda Wilkerson says "in preparation for the oil slick, we need the following: Plastic storage bins with lids (18-24 gallon), baby blankets, towels, heating pads without auto shut-off (older models), heat lamps, plastic stock tanks (tractor supply), 100-gallon or larger portable swimwing pool (non-inflatable and not shallow baby pools) and cash donations for medical supplies."

Drop items off at 406 Mountain Dr., Destin FL 32541 between 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

"We are equipped and prepared to respond to oiled wildlife found on local beaches," Wilkerson writes. "If you find a suspected oiled animal, please call us immediately. We will provide rescue and supportive care until the animal is ready for transport. BP's Oiled Wildlife Hotline is not manned and will be checked for messages hourly, thus delaying response time. Calling us directly at 850-650-1880 will save valuable time."

To volunteer, email info@ecwildliferefuge.com with your contact info.

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